Are you wondering why you’ve been told to remove your third molars? Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to come in, usually during the late teens or early twenties. Many times, they can bring discomfort and complications, leading to the need for removal. In today’s blog, your team at Sunny Smiles Family Dentistry, explains what wisdom teeth are, what happens when they get stuck, and why they often need to be taken out.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars that grow at the back of the mouth, usually four in total—one in each corner. They used to be quite important long ago when people ate rougher food. However, our diet and jaw structure have changed over time, and now they are not as necessary.
When They Become Impacted
When a wisdom tooth gets stuck, it means there isn’t enough room in the mouth for it to grow and fit in properly with the other teeth. As a result, it stays partially or completely stuck under the gum line. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause several problems, including:
- Pain and Discomfort: The lack of space and pressure from nearby teeth can lead to pain, swelling, and tenderness.
- Infection: When the wisdom tooth partially comes out, it can create a gap in the gum where bacteria can enter. This can cause infection and swelling, which is called pericoronitis.
- Cavities: It can be hard to clean these partially visible wisdom teeth. As a result, they can develop decay and holes.
- Crooked Teeth and Crowding: Wisdom teeth that get stuck can push the other teeth, causing them to become crooked or crowded.
- Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, stuck wisdom teeth can form cysts or tumors, which can damage nearby teeth and jawbone.
The Removal Process
Extracting impacted wisdom teeth is done by the dentist or an oral surgeon for more complicated cases. We offer various levels of sedation for your comfort. Most patients prefer IV sedation where they can sleep through the procedure. Once you are comfortable and numb, the dentist or surgeon will make a small cut in the gum to access the tooth and take it out. Afterward, they will provide instructions on how to take care of the area as it heals.
Schedule A Consultation
Understanding what wisdom teeth are, the problems they can cause when they get stuck, and the importance of removal can help you make informed decisions about your oral health. If you think you have impacted wisdom teeth, consult with our team to figure out the best plan. Give us a call at your local Sunny Smiles location on N Zaragoza Rd in El Paso, TX at (915)849-9000.