Nobody wants to hear the news that they will have to have their wisdom teeth removed. While some people can go their entire lives without requiring such a procedure, the majority of people require removal, and for several reasons. Please continue reading and speak with our New Jersey dental team to learn more about these procedures, why they are required, and how we can work to make the process as painless as possible.
Why Do Humans Have Wisdom Teeth If They Always Require Removal?
This is a good question, and the answer is quite simple. Years ago, our ancient ancestors often consumed rawer, harder materials, and these teeth aided in the chewing and breaking down of those foods. However, we no longer have a use for such teeth. Unfortunately, not only are these teeth practically useless in today’s day and age, but they often cause a wide array of complications when they finally come in.
Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding, nerve damage, infections, and more, which is why most people simply have them removed.
Common Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth
- Impacted teeth that remain trapped under the gums
- Crowding that causes surrounding teeth to shift
- Pain and swelling in the back of the jaw
- Infections caused by trapped bacteria
- Cysts or tumors that can impact the jawbone and nerve
- Tooth decay, as wisdom teeth are difficult to reach and clean
How Do Dentists Diagnose Wisdom Tooth Problems?
In general, dentists can see issues with wisdom teeth during regular cleanings, patient symptoms, and diagnostic imaging. Regularly seeing a dentist allows your provider to monitor how teeth are developing to determine if removal will be necessary.
Diagnostic Methods Used by Dentists
- Dental x-rays to evaluate the position of teeth below the gums
- Oral examinations to look for physical indications of issues, like swelling, redness, tenderness, or infections
- Monitoring jaw development
- Examining partially erupted or impacted teeth
When Can You Keep Your Wisdom Teeth?
Generally, wisdom teeth may remain in place if they are healthy, have fully erupted, and are properly aligned with the surrounding teeth. However, for the most part, the average person does not have enough room inside their mouth for wisdom teeth to grow properly.
Third molars generally do not need to be removed if they are healthy, positioned correctly, and fully grown in.
Situations Where Dentists May Recommend Keeping Wisdom Teeth
- The teeth have fully erupted through the gums
- Wisdom teeth have aligned properly with the surrounding molars
- The patient can effectively clean their teeth
- There are no signs of gum disease or decay
- The wisdom teeth do not cause damage to nearby teeth
Risks of Keeping Wisdom Teeth
- Increased risk of gum infections
- Food and bacteria may become trapped around the molars
- Teeth may become impacted or shifted
- Increased difficulty cleaning the back of the mouth
- Increased risk of tooth decay
What Happens When a New Jersey Dentist Removes Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom tooth removal is a common oral surgery operation in which a dentist or oral surgeon will remove one or more third molars, causing complications.
The removal process largely depends on whether your teeth are impacted or not. When we conduct the procedure, you will either go under anesthesia, or we will simply numb your gums.
While you are in recovery, you will feel some soreness for one to two weeks after the procedure. Some of the most common symptoms of having wisdom teeth removed are swollen cheeks, a sore jaw, and sore gums, among other minor side effects.
Furthermore, if you are bleeding after your surgery, do not be alarmed, for this should stop about a day after your surgery.
Step-by-Step Overview of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
- X-rays will be taken to evaluate the position of the tooth and root structure
- The dentist or oral surgeon will administer local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia
- A small incision may be made in the gums if the tooth is impacted
- The tooth may be sectioned into small pieces for easier extraction
- The tooth is carefully removed from the socket
- The area is cleaned and stitched, if necessary
- Gauze is placed where the tooth was removed to control bleeding and encourage a clot to form
How Should You Manage Pain After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
After your wisdom teeth have been removed, you may experience pain and tenderness. It’s important to understand that there are a number of things you can do to mitigate and alleviate pain following your oral surgery.
Unfortunately, most patients will experience mild to moderate discomfort following their extraction, but this is entirely normal and often manageable with proper aftercare, rest, and recommended medications.
Tips for Recovery
- Avoid hard or chewy foods like bagels, steaks, and apples
- Consume soft foods, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup
- Avoid hot liquids in the first 24 hours
- Do not smoke or drink during the early stages of healing
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling
- Avoid strenuous exercise
- Take over-the-counter medications to help with pain if recommended by your dentist
- Carefully adhere to all post-operative instructions
When to See a Somerset County Dentist About Wisdom Teeth
Even if you are not experiencing pain, you should still have your wisdom teeth examined by an experienced dentist during your routine dental appointments.
Signs You Should See a Dentist
- Persistent jaw pain near the back molars
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Frequent infections near the back teeth
- Crowding or shifting
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
Contact the Dental Associates of Basking Ridge
If you are in need of dental care in Somerset County or the surrounding area, the team at Dental Associates of Basking Ridge is ready to assist you. Our kind and compassionate staff is ready to help you prioritize your oral health. Contact us today to get started.
