Wisdom Molar Extraction
Wisdom Molar Extraction
When is it necessary to remove a tooth ?
Some reasons why extraction is necessary are:
Severe Decay : This may cause destruction of a large amount of the tooth making it un-restorable.
Severe Decay : Advanced periodontal disease : This can lead to loss of the bone which supports the tooth and hence mobility of the tooth. Once lost it is impossible to restore the bone. Fractured teeth or roots : In cases where the tooth is vertically fractured or the fracture line extends deep under the gums, there is no option but to extract. Unlike bones, tooth fractures can not be fused together.
Orthodontic correction : To create space for proper alignment of the teeth,removal of some teeth may be advised.
Malpositioned teeth : Teeth located out of the arch are often difficult to clean and can cause damage to the adjacent teeth. Their removal is often the best solution.
Impacted teeth : Teeth, which are trapped in the bone and unable to erupt often, need to be extracted
Will I be in a lot of pain after surgery ?
After surgery, some discomfort is normal. Analgesic tablets ( i.e. Aspirin, Tylenol etc.) may be taken under your dentist's direction. Prescription medication, which may have been given to you, should also be taken as directed. But if pain persists, call your dentist.
Will I have a swelling ?
To prevent swelling, apply an ice pack or a cold towel to your face in the area of the extraction during the first 12 hours. Apply alternately, 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off, for an hour or longer if necessary. There are several critical factors involved when creating a denture. Such as the size, shape and colour of the teeth, the alignment of the teeth in the jaw and the fit of the teeth with the opposite jaw. When we sit down with our patients to create the best possible fitting dentures, often it will take several visits to get it "just right" since the mouth has many uses, including speech, aesthetics, chewing and support.
When and what can I eat ?
Eat normal regular meals as soon as you are able after surgery. Cold, soft food such as ice cream or yogurt may be the most comfortable for the first day. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids.
May I brush my teeth as I normally do ?
Do not brush your teeth for the first 8 hours after surgery. After that, you may brush your teeth gently, but avoid the site of surgery.
When can I resume smoking after an extraction ?
Do not smoke for at least 12 hours after the extraction as it will promote bleeding and interfere with healing. Today, with all the facilities and knowledge available to us, an extraction is the absolute last resort. At our dental center, our goal is to try and avoid this option at all costs.
What are wisdom teeth ?
Wisdom teeth get their name because they usually arrive around adulthood (17-21 years of age). Unfortunately very often, they do not fit properly in the mouth leading to other more serious, uncomfortable and costly problems.
What are the problems that arise due to wisdom teeth ?
When wisdom teeth only partially emerge: Pockets are formed around these teeth and they provide an opening for bacteria. This results in the tissues getting infected and is not only painful but can also cause swelling and general illness.
When impacted wisdom teeth continue to form without adequate room: This development can place tremendous pressure on the nearby healthy teeth and damage them. It may also cause crowding of the other teeth
When they emerge very far back or into the cheek: Wisdom teeth can be hard to clean as they are almost inaccessible making them more prone to decay.
When a cyst or tumor forms in the area of wisdom teeth: Such an unwanted occurrence can destroy adjacent teeth, their roots or bone
Why and when do wisdom teeth need to be removed ?
Removal of wisdom teeth is often necessary when any of the above conditions occur. Everyone should have their wisdom teeth evaluated before age 20. Removal of wisdom teeth at an early age involves less risk to the surrounding nerves and bone since tooth roots are not fully developed and heals faster as compared to surgery later in life
What are the side effects of the surgery ?
Usually the surgery is followed by some swelling, difficulty in opening the mouth and difficulty in eating. The degree of discomfort will depend on the type of impaction.
What are the types of wisdom teeth impactions ?
Partial eruption
Vertical impaction
Horizontalimpaction
Mesio-angular impaction
Who performs the surgery ?
If simple and straightforward, the surgery can be performed by a general dentist. If potential complications are foreseen, you should be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, a specialist in surgical removal of wisdom teeth.