Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to erupt. They usually develop around the age of 17, although it can be as late as the early twenties in some people. The common term “wisdom teeth” refers to the fact that a person is an adult, or nearly so, before these teeth develop. In some cases, wisdom teeth develop properly and cause no problems. However, more frequently, they are misaligned or even impacted and require extraction.
Any tooth can become impacted, though it occurs most commonly with wisdom teeth. An impacted tooth is one that does not have enough room to develop completely because it is too far back or other teeth are crowding it. Humans today have smaller jaws than our ancestors did, rarely leaving room for the third molars. The tooth will still grow to full size, but it may turn sideways or push itself downward to make room. It does not completely erupt or break through the gum tissue. Sometimes, only a small portion of it, or none at all, is exposed.
Impacted teeth can be painful and endanger your oral health because they crowd the neighboring teeth, nerves, and other nearby tissues. This can cause jaw problems, bone damage, tooth fractures, and more. Additionally, partial tooth eruption creates an opening where bacteria can enter, causing an infection around the tooth, resulting in jaw stiffness, swelling, pain, and overall illness.
If you have a wisdom tooth that is impacted or likely to become impacted, your dentist will probably recommend extraction. The procedure for removing a wisdom tooth varies, depending on its location and position. In some cases, it may be no different from a standard tooth. However, if it is covered by soft tissue, an incision will be needed for your dentist to gain access. This is known as a surgical extraction.
Impaction means that a wisdom tooth is unable to fully emerge or align correctly in the mouth, often due to a lack of space. Impacted wisdom teeth may grow at an angle or remain partially trapped in the gum or bone. Common symptoms include pain in the back of the mouth, swelling around the jaw, difficulty opening the mouth, and even bad breath or an unpleasant taste if an infection occurs. Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection, as X-rays can reveal impaction before symptoms arise. If you suspect an impaction, consult your dentist for an evaluation. Early detection and timely intervention can prevent discomfort and other complications that may arise from untreated impactions.
The wisdom tooth extraction process generally begins with a consultation to evaluate your specific needs. On the day of the procedure, your dentist will apply local anesthesia to numb the area, and sedation may be offered in some cases for added comfort. Once the area is numb, the dentist carefully loosens and removes the tooth, which may involve breaking it into smaller parts if necessary. At Esquire Dental Centres, patient care and comfort are a priority, and each step is taken with expertise to minimize discomfort. Pain management options, including anesthesia, help ensure a smooth experience. Clear communication and a calm approach help alleviate anxiety, making the procedure more manageable and comfortable for patients.
While extraction is often recommended for problematic wisdom teeth, other approaches may be suitable in specific cases. Monitoring the teeth is an option if they are not causing pain or damage, as some wisdom teeth remain symptom-free without issues. In cases of mild impaction or minor discomfort, conservative treatments such as antibiotics or pain management might offer temporary relief. However, extraction is typically advised when wisdom teeth pose risks to oral health, as untreated issues can lead to infections, cysts, and alignment problems. Consulting with a dental professional helps you explore all options and make an informed decision based on your needs. A balanced approach ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate care.
The recovery process after wisdom tooth extraction usually spans a few days to a week, with initial swelling and discomfort peaking around the second or third day. Pain can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medications, and applying ice packs helps reduce swelling. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities, eating soft foods, and refraining from using straws, which can disrupt healing. Keeping the extraction site clean and rinsing with salt water can prevent infection. Full healing may take a few weeks, and following your dentist’s post-operative guidelines promotes a smooth recovery. If you notice unusual symptoms like excessive bleeding or severe pain, reach out to your dentist for assistance.
Leaving problematic or impacted wisdom teeth untreated can lead to several complications. The most common risks include infections, as bacteria can accumulate around partially erupted teeth, leading to gum swelling and pain. Cysts, or fluid-filled sacs, can form around impacted wisdom teeth, potentially damaging nearby teeth and bone. Additionally, impacted wisdom teeth may exert pressure on adjacent teeth, causing alignment issues and, in some cases, decay. Over time, these issues can compromise overall oral health and require more extensive treatment. Scheduling a professional evaluation allows dentists to assess the potential risks and recommend timely intervention to protect your oral health, avoiding serious complications down the line.
If you have concerns about wisdom teeth, visit one of Esquire Dental Centres’ three convenient locations in Scarborough, Pickering, or North York. After a comprehensive oral examination, your doctor will explain the nature and severity of the problem and recommend the best solution.
Dr. Amir Awadalla
Dr. Mark Awadalla
Dr. Ashraf Awadalla
