Everything You Need To Know About Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth removal is a common rite of passage for late teens and young adults. Statistics show that 5 million people have wisdom teeth removed each year. But what are wisdom teeth, why do they cause pain, and why must they be removed? The wisdom teeth specialists at Penn Dental Medicine have compiled this informative guide to answer these questions and more.

From Removal to Recovery: Your Guide to Wisdom Teeth

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back corners of your mouth. Most people develop four wisdom teeth, although having fewer or none is not uncommon.

When Do Wisdom Teeth Come In?

Wisdom teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25.

Why Are They Removed?

Wisdom teeth are often removed because they can cause various issues, including:

• Impaction: When they don’t have enough space to emerge or develop normally, leading to pain, infection, or damage to other teeth.
• Crowding: They can push your other teeth out of alignment.
• Decay and Gum Disease: Their position at the back of the mouth makes them difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

How Are Wisdom Teeth Diagnosed?

Diagnosing wisdom teeth typically involves a combination of dental examinations and imaging techniques to evaluate their position and potential impact on oral health.

Here’s how dentists usually diagnose whether your wisdom teeth may need attention:

• Dental Examination: During a routine dental checkup, your dentist will examine your mouth to check for any signs of wisdom teeth emerging. They will look for potential symptoms such as swelling, redness, or tenderness in the back of your mouth. If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or have visible signs of wisdom teeth starting to emerge, your dentist will pay closer attention to those areas.

• Dental X-rays: These are a crucial tool in diagnosing wisdom teeth. They allow dentists to see the position, alignment, and development of wisdom teeth beneath your gums. X-rays can reveal whether your wisdom teeth are:
  • Impacted: Trapped beneath the gum line or in the jawbone.
  • Malpositioned: Growing at an angle toward adjacent teeth or the back of the mouth.
  • Erupting Properly: Emerging in a way that might not cause issues.What Is the Wisdom Teeth Removal Process?

Before the extraction, you’ll visit an oral surgeon or dentist to discuss your situation. They will provide a treatment plan and discuss anesthesia options, ranging from local anesthesia to general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction.

The Surgery

Wisdom teeth removal is typically an outpatient procedure, taking about 45 minutes to an hour. The general steps include:

1. Anesthesia Administration: To ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Tissue Incision: If the tooth is impacted, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone.
3. Tooth Extraction: The dentist will remove the tooth. If necessary, the tooth may be divided into sections for easier removal.
4. Stitches: If needed, stitches may be used to close the extraction site.

What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery Like?

Immediate Post-Surgery Care:

Once the procedure is over, you’ll spend time in a recovery room under observation. During your initial recovery, you can expect instructions to include:

• Gauze Pads: You might need to bite gently on gauze to control bleeding and help form a blood clot.
• Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to your face to reduce swelling.
• Rest: Plan to rest for the remainder of the day.

Managing Pain and Swelling:

• Medications: Take prescribed painkillers and antibiotics as recommended. A new study shows that over-the-counter painkillers can be just as or more effective at controlling pain as opioids.
• Ice Application: Continue to apply ice packs during the first 24 to 48 hours to minimize swelling.

What To Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Your diet and fluid intake are critical for recovery afterward. Your dentist will tell you to stick to soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, and soups for a few days. You’ll also be instructed to drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using a straw, as suction may dislodge blood clots and delay healing.

What About Brushing Your Teeth?

Oral hygiene is always important, and especially after surgery. Brush your teeth carefully and rinse your mouth with warm salt water to maintain oral hygiene without disturbing the incisions.

How Long Does It Take To Recover Completely?

Full recovery can take a couple of weeks. During this period, attend any scheduled postoperative appointments to ensure proper healing. You’ll also be asked to refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol as these can impede healing. And, you’ll be instructed to avoid sports or physical activity for at least a week.

Wisdom Teeth Removal at Penn Dental Medicine

If you or a child is experiencing pain or swelling in the back of your mouth, find out if it’s caused by wisdom teeth. Talk to a wisdom teeth specialist at PDM. From initial consultation to removal to recovery, our state-of-the-art facility and dedication to patient care make us a trusted choice for dental care. At Penn Dental Medicine, our team is committed to providing high-quality care tailored to your individual needs at a lower cost than what you’d pay elsewhere. It’s the smart choice to make for wisdom teeth care. You can make an appointment by calling 215-898-8965 or completing this form.