Introduction:
Tooth removal, also known as tooth extraction, is a dental procedure where a tooth is removed from its socket in the bone. In other words, Surgical removal of the tooth from its socket is known as extraction. This may be necessary due to various reasons, such as severe decay, infection, crowding, or damage beyond repair.
What Is a Wisdom Tooth?
A wisdom tooth, also known as the third molar, is one of the four permanent adult teeth located at the back corners of the mouth. They usually emerge in their late teens or early twenties. Wisdom teeth can cause problems if there is not enough space for them to surface properly, leading to pain, crowding, and infection, often requiring extraction.
How to Know the Presence of Wisdom Teeth in the Oral Cavity?
The presence of wisdom teeth can often be determined through dental examinations, x-rays, and symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth. Dentists can assess the positioning, development, and potential impacts of wisdom teeth on oral health.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Advocated?
Wisdom tooth removal is often advocated when they cause problems such as pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, or if they are impacted (unable to fully emerge from the gums). Additionally, preventive removal may be recommended by dentists or oral surgeons if there’s a high likelihood of future problems due to the size of the jaw or the angle at which the wisdom teeth are growing.
What Are the Problems Associated With Wisdom Tooth?
Problems related to wisdom teeth
Impaction:
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Because wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt in our mouth, they do not find enough space to erupt.
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So, they may be positioned in an angular manner, in a horizontal position, or submerged in the adjacent front teeth.
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This kind of situation where a tooth is unable to erupt out properly because of the hindrance by other teeth is called impaction.
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This occurs more often in our generations because of the lesser workload given to our jaws. We have shifted our food habits to eating more of softer foods, and hence, jaw size has started to decrease over generations. Hence, the teeth find a lesser place to accommodate in the jaws.
Decay/Cavity:
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Decay can occur only in completely or partly erupted wisdom teeth.
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Generally, because of their remote position, foodstuffs and debris can get caught and accumulate.
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The natural cleansing effect of the tongue and cheek muscles also is not possible for these teeth.
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Brushing also will not be able to fully clean up the food debris, as the head of the toothbrush cannot reach the wisdom tooth area.
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So, decay can occur and spoil not only the wisdom teeth but also the adjacent teeth because food debris often accumulates in the gap between the wisdom tooth and the adjacent tooth.
Gum Problem/Swelling:
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When food debris accumulates, the overlying gums can get infected.
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Sometimes, injury to the gums while biting hard food can also cause swollen gums in the wisdom tooth area. This is called pericoronitis.
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This situation will lead to severe pain while chewing food and while opening the mouth.
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If this problem is left carelessly, it may cause pus formation and swelling and also an inability to open the mouth.
Jaw Problems: Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the jawbone, leading to jaw pain, stiffness, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Sinus Issues: Impacted upper wisdom teeth can sometimes cause sinus pain, pressure, or congestion if they push against the sinuses.
Cysts or Tumors: Cysts or tumors may develop around impacted wisdom teeth, which can cause damage to the surrounding bone and tissues if left untreated.
In What Ways Can Wisdom Teeth Be Managed?
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Earlier, tooth removal (extraction or surgical removal) was the only option to treat wisdom tooth problems.
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With recent advancements, root canal treatment (RCT) is performed in case of decayed wisdom teeth, and hence, a chance to save exists.
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When there is swollen gum concerning non-impacted wisdom teeth (pericoronitis), a surgical procedure called operculectomy is performed. In this way, the flap is removed, and the tooth is allowed to erupt.
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Generally, most cases of wisdom teeth problems are treated by surgical removal only, as most of them remain impacted.
What Are the Points to Be Considered Before Undergoing Extraction?
Before undergoing a tooth extraction, there are several important points to consider:
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Consultation With a Dentist: Schedule a consultation with a dentist to evaluate the need for extraction and to discuss the options. The dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and the overall oral health to determine if extraction is necessary.
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Understand the Reason for Extraction: Make sure to understand the reason why the tooth needs to be extracted. This could be due to severe decay, infection, gum disease, crowding, or damage beyond repair.
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Discuss Anesthesia Options: Talk to the dentist about anesthesia options for the extraction procedure. This may include local anesthesia to numb the area, sedation to relax during the procedure, or general anesthesia for more complex extractions.
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Consider Potential Risks and Complications: Understand the potential risks and complications associated with the extraction procedure, such as bleeding, infection, dry socket, nerve damage, or damage to surrounding teeth or tissues.
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Prepare for Recovery: Be prepared for the recovery process after the extraction. This may include pain management, swelling, dietary restrictions, and proper oral hygiene practices to promote healing.
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Follow Pre-Extraction Instructions: The dentist may provide specific instructions to follow before the extraction, such as fasting before the procedure or adjusting medications. Make sure to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth extraction process.
Conclusion:
The wisdom tooth is the last erupting tooth in the dental arch. Some people do not have a tooth since birth, which is called a congenitally missing tooth. For some, there will be a space in the jaw that can accommodate the erupting tooth in the future. In case of impacted or misaligned teeth, extraction of the teeth is indicated. With advanced technology, removal of the teeth became a common chair-side procedure performed in the dental office. For a quicker recovery, follow the post-extraction tips and follow-ups.