Wisdom teeth erupt in the oral cavity around the age when a person matures (age 17 to 30 years). They are the last permanent teeth to erupt in the mouth. They are also called third molars.
Why wisdom teeth removal is so common these days?
Evolution has resulted in smaller jaw size, which results in less or no space left for wisdom teeth eruption thus causing impaction.
Mankind earlier used to eat more raw foods. Wisdom teeth played an important role in chewing food. However, in modern times, processed and cooked food have extensively replaced most raw foods.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No, not all wisdom teeth need to be removed.
In some cases, wisdom teeth erupt normally — just as other molars and cause no problems.
If a wisdom tooth has
completely erupted in the oral cavity,
a good opposing tooth
and, is easily kept clean without harming its neighbouring tooth
Then it
DOES NOT need to be removed.
Wisdom teeth MAY NEED to be removed if,
eruption is at an angle to the roots of the neighbouring molar.
eruption at an angle towards the back of the jaw.
erupts at 90 degrees angle to the neighbouring tooth, as if it is “lying down” within the jaw bone
erupts straight up or down; however, remains partially trapped within the jawbone.
causes food lodgement in and around it.
When is wisdom tooth removal necessary?
Lack of space for complete eruption
Pain, infection, decay or food lodgement/debris in and around the wisdom tooth
Infection or gum diseases around the wisdom tooth (periodontal disease)
Damage to a nearby tooth or surrounding bone
Development of a fluid-filled sac (cyst) around the wisdom tooth
During or after orthodontic treatment to straighten other teeth
What should you do after wisdom tooth removal?
Bite onto the cotton pack for 1 hour.
Swallow blood/saliva while the cotton pack is in the mouth.
Apply ice-pack on the lip/cheek in 10-minute increments to help curb the swelling.
Eat a soft diet and cold foods.
Take adequate rest and maintain fluid intake.
Gently brush the area next morning and maintain proper hygiene in and around the wound.
4th day onwards rinse with warm salt water after meals.
Take prescribed medicines as advised.
What should you NOT to do after wisdom tooth removal?
DO NOT spit when the cotton pack is in the mouth, swallow blood or saliva.
DO NOT spit immediately after removing the pack.
DO NOT apply heat over the area.
Avoid HARD and HOT FOODS.
Avoid accidental biting of the tongue, cheeks, lips as long as the area is still numb.
Avoid SMOKING, SPICY foods, AERATED DRINKS, ALCOHOL consumption for the next 3 days.
