Wisdom Teeth Removal

How do I know if my wisdom teeth need removed?

While every patient is different, there are some common signs that indicate the need to have your wisdom teeth removed. These signs include:

• Impaction: When a wisdom tooth is either trapped beneath the gums or completely concealed. Impacted wisdom teeth may lead to infections or cysts within the jaw, potentially damaging adjacent teeth or roots.
  
• Altered Bite Alignment: As wisdom teeth can grow in various angles within the jaw, including horizontally, they may disrupt the alignment of your bite.
  
• Crowding or Dental Damage: Insufficient space for proper eruption can cause wisdom teeth to exert pressure on existing teeth, resulting in crowding or damage.
  
• Partial Eruption: If wisdom teeth only partially emerge through the gums, they can create pockets that attract bacteria, heightening the risk of gum disease and oral infections.

Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth at an early age, before the roots and bone are fully formed and when recovery is faster.

How do I relieve wisdom tooth pain?

As your wisdom teeth emerge through your jawbone and begin to break through your gum line, they may become inflamed or bleed, causing headaches or tooth pain. If you’re experiencing such discomfort, here are some gentle remedies to alleviate wisdom tooth pain:

• Rinsing with warm salt water to soothe the area
• Using peppermint essential oils or clove oil for their natural pain-relieving properties.
• Taking aspirin or an over-the-counter pain reliever could provide relief.
• Applying a cold compress or a warm heating pad to your cheeks may also help ease the discomfort. Remember to wrap it in a cloth to protect your skin.

What is an impacted wisdom tooth?

An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when there isn’t enough space for it to emerge normally. Degrees of impacted wisdom teeth are determined by their positioning within the jaw. Soft tissue impaction occurs when the tooth’s crown has breached the bone, yet the gum still covers part of it. Partial bone impaction happens when the tooth partially erupts, leaving a portion submerged in the jawbone. Complete bone impaction occurs when the jawbone entirely encases the tooth.

How long does it take to heal after wisdom teeth removal?

For most individuals, particularly teenagers to those in their mid-20s, the healing process ranges from 4 days to 2 weeks post-procedure. During this period, swelling and discomfort are common. It is important to get ample rest to quicken the healing process. It’s worth noting that younger individuals generally experience an easier healing process compared to older adults. Certain practices, such as smoking, using straws, and neglecting proper oral hygiene, can prolong the healing process.