Have you ever wondered why some people need to remove their wisdom teeth? Today, wisdom teeth are considered useless because modern diets are softer, and cooking makes food easier to chew. Additionally, human jaws have become smaller, leaving little room for these extra teeth, often causing crowding or other dental issues.
Let’s explore wisdom teeth removal more in this blog.
Common Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
- Impaction
Wisdom teeth often fail to emerge properly and become trapped, or “impacted,” within the jawbone or gums. This can lead to pain, swelling, and an increased risk of infection. Impacted teeth may also exert pressure on surrounding teeth and cause misalignment.
- Crowding
People with smaller jaws leave limited space for wisdom teeth to fit properly. When they erupt, they can push against other teeth, leading to crowding or shifting of existing teeth, potentially undoing orthodontic work.
- Pain
Wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort as they emerge, especially if they press against nerves, other teeth, or sensitive gum tissue. Persistent pain is a common reason for extraction.
- Infection
Partially erupted wisdom teeth (pericoronitis) create an opening in the gums, making it easier for bacteria to accumulate. This can lead to infections such as characterized by swelling, redness, and discomfort.
- To Prevent Future Problems
Even if wisdom teeth aren’t currently causing issues, dentists may recommend extraction to avoid future complications, such as decay, gum disease, or cysts that can form around the teeth.
By addressing these issues early, wisdom tooth extraction helps maintain overall oral health and prevent long-term problems.
Do’s After Wisdom Tooth Removal
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Carefully listen to the instructions given by the dentist.
- Rinsing with Salt Water: Gentle rinsing after 24 hours to keep the area clean and reduce swelling.
- Take Prescribed Medications: Take the painkillers as directed by your dentist.
- Eating soft foods such as yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies helps with smooth chewing.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Always clean the mouth without disturbing the surgical site.
Don’ts After Wisdom Tooth Removal
- Avoid spitting/ avoid using straws: If you spit after extraction, it can dislodge the blood clot. The same is applied for suction( using straws)
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Explain how these can delay healing and increase the risk of dry sockets.
- Don’t Eat Hard or Crunchy Foods: It can irritate the wound or get stuck.
- Avoid Physical Exertion: Recommend rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days.
Misconception About Wisdom Tooth Removal
The Procedure is Always Painful.
Many people get conscious when it comes to wisdom tooth removal, thinking it will be extremely painful. However, the procedure is typically painless with modern anesthetics and sedation options.
Recovery Takes a Long Time.
Recovery from wisdom tooth removal varies from person to person, but most people can resume normal activities within a few days. Following post-operative instructions helps speed up healing and minimizes complications.
You Can’t Eat Normally After the Procedure.
While soft foods are recommended initially, most patients can gradually return to a normal diet within a week or two, depending on their recovery progress.
By understanding the dos and don’ts of wisdom tooth removal, you can ensure a smooth healing process and avoid complications like dry sockets or delayed recovery. Debugging common misconceptions is essential, as this helps alleviate unnecessary fear and anxiety about the procedure.
If you’re looking for reliable wisdom tooth removal in Manish Nagar, Salankar Dental and Implant Clinic offers a painless and comfortable experience to ensure your comfort and care every step of the way. Take the first step toward better oral health today!