Wisdom Teeth
Frequently, wisdom teeth become a cause for emergency consultation. In most people, there is not enough space for all of these teeth to erupt in an optimal way. This is why it’s recommended to have regular follow-ups with your dentist. Hint, come see us for a full evaluation!
About Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth normally erupt in the mouth towards the end of adolescence. However, it is possible to see their appearance later in adulthood, so there is no exact age that can be relied upon to determine when they will actually erupt. The main diagnostic tool used by your dentist to assess the presence and position of third molars is the panoramic x-ray. This x-ray allows you to see the entire jawbone so that you can see the position of the teeth in your mouth.
Frequently, wisdom teeth become a cause for emergency consultation. In most people, there is not enough space for all of these teeth to erupt in an optimal way.
There are several good reasons to extract them to avoid short, medium and long term problems:
When wisdom teeth erupt, they are at risk for cavities and gum disease. Being located at the back of the mouth, they can be difficult to clean, allowing food debris and bacteria (plaque) to accumulate, which can lead to infection.
They can damage adjacent teeth that have already erupted by resorbing their roots. This damage is most commonly seen when wisdom teeth erupt horizontally or follow a wrong path during eruption.
Cyst formation around the tooth can also occur. At this point, it is suggested that the cyst and the tooth be removed. The cyst may continue to grow and damage the jawbone.
Wisdom teeth can also become infected even when they are impacted (still under the gum) and asymptomatic. In fact, a wisdom tooth that has been impacted for several years can suddenly cause a multitude of problems at any age.
The gums around the third molars become sensitive, red, swollen or even bleed more easily. We often find this type of problem when the teeth are semi-included, meaning that part of the tooth is visible in the mouth and the other part is still under the gum. It can also happen that a small space is created between the tooth and the gum, so as to create a depth.
During orthodontic treatment, when there is not enough space for all the teeth, it is recommended that the wisdom teeth be extracted to allow for proper alignment of the other teeth.
When a cavity is diagnosed in the wisdom tooth, the dentist may not be able to repair it in the mouth according to the rules of art due to the lack of access. In addition, there is a risk of causing a recurrence of problems
Post-Op
What to expect
Prior to your wisdom teeth appointment, Dr Katiya or members of her team will meet with you to explain how to prepare for this procedure. Medications and pre-post operators instructions will be given. Sedation is highly recommend to calm the patient’s anxiety prior and during the procedure but also to help relax the jaw muscles so that we may work more efficiently.
It is recommended that someone accompany knew to drive you and from the procedure and also receive the post-operative instructions. The team is very experienced and reassuring and we do recommend you bring EarPods and some music to help you relax. Our goal is to make it as pleasant and quick as possible.