What is a wisdom tooth?
Why do I need my wisdom tooth removed?
If you have a complication with a wisdom tooth it may need to be removed. Common issues that can occur are usually down to the lack of space for the wisdom tooth to grow into, this is called impaction.
An impacted tooth doesn’t have enough room to emerge or develop normally. This can cause pain and infection around the tooth and gum line. Infection can occur from a partially emerged wisdom tooth that traps food and bacteria in and around the gum tissue (pericoronitis) or it may occur from gum disease due to the difficulty in cleaning the wisdom tooth due to lack of space (periodontal disease). Cysts and tumours can develop and form around the tooth, damaging jawbone, teeth and nerves. Tumours are rare but a possibility.
Impacted teeth can also cause damage to surrounding teeth and cause crowding. Crowding happens when the wisdom tooth emerges into very little space, pushing the teeth out of alignment. General hygiene of the wisdom tooth and the lack of ability to effectively clean the tooth can result in tooth decay, this can spread to neighbouring teeth if left untreated.
Wisdom teeth may also be removed during orthodontic treatment to prevent any future crowding of the teeth.
Can wisdom teeth be painful?
The pressure as the wisdom tooth pushes through and emerges from the gum tissue can cause significant disruption. You may feel pressure and pain in your sinuses and suffer with jaw stiffness finding it difficult to open the mouth at times.
What to expect?
Consultation
The first appointment will be an assessment of the tooth during a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. X rays will be taken to show the position of the wisdom tooth which will determine the complexity of the extraction. During the consultation the dentist will discuss the treatment, any risks and the procedure. At Green Square Dental & Implant Centre we can provide IV sedation for nervous patients. This option would be discussed during your consultation and any pre-surgery instructions.
Treatment
The procedure will begin with the administration of anaesthetic to prevent pain during the treatment. If the patient has opted for sedation this will be administered at the start of the procedure.
Once the area is numb, the dentist will make an incision to the gum tissue to begin the extraction. After the tooth is removed, the area will be cleaned. In some case’s stitches will be needed to close the wound. These are normally dissolvable stitches and will disappear in a few days. Gauze is used to bite on which helps to form a clot.
Recovery
If patients opt for sedation, time will be allocated to bring the patient around after treatment. This can take longer compared to just normal anaesthetic, which will just leave you numb around the extraction site. Once the treatment is finished, you will use the gauze to bite down on. This will help to control the bleeding. You will be instructed on extraction aftercare, how to manage any pain, swelling or further bleeding. You may also be prescribed additional painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs or anti-biotics to prevent infection.
Once home, the extraction area will be tender and swollen. A cold compress to the outside of your cheek will help. It may be difficult to eat initially so it’s recommended to eat soft foods and to avoid hot, chewy or spicy foods. Drink plenty of fluids but don’t use a straw as this can dislodge the blood clot that has formed. Rest is recommended and to avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
You must continue to brush your teeth avoiding the extraction area. Rinsing your mouth with warm salty water for the first 24 hours will help to keep the extraction area clean. It is advised to attend your follow up appointment to ensure everything has healed properly and no infection has appeared.
How will I know if I have a complication after extraction?
A complication may have occurred for the following reasons;
- Dry Socket – This is caused when the blood clot has dislodged exposing bone and nerves. Generally, with a dry socket, you will initially feel well but begin to suffer from pain a few days after extraction. The pain will gradually increase and can become very painful. This will require further treatment.
- Infection – Though rare, infections after extraction can occur. Signs will be severe pain, fever, a foul smell and some swelling in or outside the mouth and potentially some pus around the extraction site. This will need further treatment.
While the idea of having a wisdom tooth removed can be daunting, the procedure is typically straightforward and can resolve complications caused by impaction, crowding, infection and decay. It’s important however, to follow your dentist’s advice which will lead to a smooth recovery.
Call Green Square Dental & Implant Centre today on 01709 917666 for a tailored approach based on your specific dental health and the development of your wisdom teeth.
