The third and final set of molars to erupt in the normal adult mouth are known as your wisdom teeth. While wisdom teeth do grow in straight for some people, in most cases people experience problems with their wisdom teeth. Problems may arise because the teeth erupt too close to existing permanent teeth, causing crowding, improper bites, and other issues. Because most mouths are too small to accommodate four additional molars, wisdom teeth removal is often necessary to prevent other dental problems, including impaction or the shifting of neighboring teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth are prevented from erupting, cause infection, gum disease and even the formation of a cyst. Is Extraction Needed? If your wisdom teeth are causing you problems and are not extracted, they can become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can be extremely painful, as well as harmful to your oral health. Symptoms are often easy to spot, including pain, inflammation, and infection. Many people will need their wisdom teeth extracted to avoid future problems. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and not extracted, the following may occur: * Teeth shifting * Bone loss and jaw expansion * Congestion * Cysts and tumors * Gum tissue irritation * Periodontal pockets, cavities and bone loss * Changes in orthodontia and dentures Partially or fully erupted wisdom teeth may also need to be removed as they are often nonfunctional, susceptible to tooth decay and interfere with the alignment of adjacent, healthy teeth. In general, the lack of wisdom teeth does not impede one's ability to properly bite down, speak or eat. Recovery and Aftercare Recovery after your wisdom teeth surgery varies from person to person, with full recovery taking up to three or four weeks. Once you have undergone surgery, there are several important steps to take in order to ensure proper healing and recovery from your procedure. During the first 24 hours after wisdom teeth removal, you can expect some bleeding to occur. To control bleeding, you can use a moist, clean piece of gauze placed over the extraction site. Biting pressure applied for 45 minutes should help stop any bleeding. Additionally, facial swelling is also common after wisdom tooth extraction. To relieve swelling you may wrap ice in a cloth and apply it to the swollen area for 10 minutes and removed for 20 minutes. This cycle can be repeated as often as necessary during the first 24 hours following your procedure. Your dentist will work with you to explain an appropriate post-care plan for your specific needs. If you are experiencing pain with your wisdom teeth or any other symptoms, contact your dentist in Niagara Falls for further treatment. Waiting to have your wisdom teeth removed, or extracted, until there is a cause for medical concern can increase the risk for complications to increase.
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When there is not enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to fully grow, this can lead to pain, infection, shifting of neighboring teeth and gum line and facial swelling. When any of these conditions arise, your dentist may determine that extraction of your wisdom teeth is needed. Continue reading to learn more about wisdom teeth and if it is appropriate to have them removed.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Robert LaCarrubba at Niagara Quality Care Dentistry, Niagara Falls, NY dentist. Offering services in areas such as sedation, veneers, six month braces and implants, Dr. LaCarrubba, Niagara Falls dentist, is committed to providing patients with the best dental care available.
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