Wisdom teeth (third molars), often emerge in the late teenage years or early adulthood. They are the last set of molars to come in and are located at the back of the mouth.
Wisdom teeth removal is often necessary when they cause problems such as pain, infection, and crowding of other teeth.
When to have wisdom teeth removal:
1. Crowding: When wisdom teeth push against other teeth, they can cause crowding and discomfort. Moreover, it can lead to misalignment and bite problems, which can also affect other teeth.
2. Pain and swelling: Wisdom teeth can cause pain and swelling, especially if they are impacted (stuck beneath the gum line). If the pain and swelling persist, it may be time to consider removal.
3. Infection: When wisdom teeth partially emerge from the gums, they can trap food and bacteria, leading to infection. An infected wisdom tooth can also be very painful and may cause swelling, redness, and a bad taste in the mouth.
4. Decay: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, leading to decay and gum disease. If the decay and gum disease persist, removal may be necessary to prevent further damage.
5. Cyst formation: Wisdom teeth can sometimes cause cyst formation, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth. If a cyst is detected, removal of the wisdom tooth may be necessary to prevent further damage.
Who does it?
Wisdom teeth removal is usually performed by an oral surgeon and can be done under local anesthesia. After removal, you will need to rest for a few days and follow your dentist’s instructions for post-operative care. Contact Dr Dinesh for an appointment or call (03) 9878 3233.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is often necessary to prevent discomfort, infection, crowding, decay, and cyst formation. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consult with our dentist to determine if removal is necessary. Early removal of wisdom teeth can often prevent more serious problems in the future.