By

Dr. Nissy Susan

 MDS

Wisdom teeth are technically called third molars. Third molars normally come through the gums around the age of 18-25, a time that was once referred to as the “age of wisdom”

Why take them out?  

Dental check-ups are key to detecting the growth of wisdom teeth, and dentists generally refer patients to an oral surgeon when it’s time to have these teeth removed. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to get your wisdom teeth taken out:

• Grow in at an angle, hitting your other molar.
• Grow in at a 90-degree angle within your jaw or “lying down”.
• Trap food behind the wisdom tooth.
• Cause infection or gum disease.
• Cause tooth decay in partially grown teeth.

 

Removing the wisdom tooth

The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia. If the tooth hasn’t come through the gum, a small cut (incision) will be made in the gum to access it. A small piece of the bone covering the tooth may also need to be removed.

The tooth may be cut into smaller parts to make it easier to remove through the opening. There’s less need to make an incision if the tooth has broken through the gum.

You’ll feel some pressure just before the tooth is removed. This is because your dentist or oral surgeon needs to widen the tooth socket by rocking the tooth back and forth before taking it out.

Surgery to remove wisdom teeth shouldn’t be painful because the area will be numb. Simple procedures can take a few minutes, but they can take longer than 1hour if it’s more complicated.

Post Operative Recovery

Here are some things to do after your tooth extraction that will help promote blood clot formation and healing:

• Use gauze to promote clotting and stop bleeding 
• Use ice packs for pain and swelling 
• Eat soft foods
• Rest or sleep with head elevated
• Take your prescribed medications

 

It is essential to avoid these things to promote a speedy recovery and reduce your risk of dry sockets.

 

• Avoid using straws 
• Do not spit
• Avoid blowing your nose or sneezing 
• Avoid probing the extraction site with your tongue 
• Avoid rinsing your mouth
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

 

Al Noor Polyclinic Rashidiya believes that the decision to remove your wisdom teeth is one that should be made by you, your family, and your oral surgeon. Please give our office a call to answer any questions you may have about your wisdom teeth or to schedule an appointment.