Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure performed to address current dental problems or to prevent potential issues that may arise as wisdom teeth erupt. As the last set of molars to develop, wisdom teeth often emerge during adolescence or early adulthood. Due to their late arrival, they can cause various complications, especially if there isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to grow correctly.
Common Issues with Wisdom Teeth
Several problems can occur as wisdom teeth begin to erupt:
- Impaction: Your jaw may not be large enough to accommodate the new teeth, causing them to become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth are unable to erupt fully through the gums and can press against adjacent teeth, leading to discomfort from an infection called pericoronaritis ( a localised infection in the tissues surrounding the wisdom teeth) and making it difficult to clean the area properly. This can result in interdental decay and other dental issues.
- Awkward Angles: Wisdom teeth may erupt at awkward angles, with the crown of the tooth facing forward, backward, or to the sides. This misalignment can make cleaning challenging, leading to trapped food and bacteria. If left untreated, this can cause pericoronaritis — and/or decay.
- Crowding and Partial Eruption: When wisdom teeth try to emerge in an already crowded mouth, they may only partially break through the gums or grow at an angle, leading to a condition known as impaction.
Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can present in various ways:
- Horizontal Impaction: The wisdom tooth lies completely on its side, trapped beneath the gums.
- Vertical Impaction: The wisdom tooth is positioned correctly for eruption but remains trapped beneath the gums.
- Mesial Impaction: The wisdom tooth is angled toward the front of the mouth.
- Distal Impaction: The wisdom tooth is angled toward the back of the mouth.
Why Wisdom Tooth Extraction May Be Necessary
Wisdom teeth that grow at an angle, emerge partially, or remain impacted can lead to several dental problems, including:
- Dental Decay and Gum Disease: Difficulty cleaning the area can lead to plaque buildup, which results in cavities and bone loss to the neighbouring tooth.
- Infections: Trapped food and bacteria around impacted teeth can cause infections, such as pericoronitis, cellulitis, and abscesses.
- Discomfort and Pain: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause swelling, bite problems, jaw pain, headaches, and sore or bleeding gums.
The Extraction Procedure
Before removing a wisdom tooth, your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. For patients who are particularly anxious or for more complex extractions, sedation may be offered to help you relax during the procedure.
Impacted wisdom tooth removal is typically a surgical procedure performed by a highly skilled clinician. The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout. After the tooth is removed, your dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.
Monitoring and Regular Check-Ups
Not all impacted wisdom teeth cause symptoms, so regular dental check-ups and X-rays are essential to monitor their development. Early detection of potential issues allows your dentist to recommend the best course of action, whether that involves monitoring the teeth or planning for extraction.
When Should You Consider Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as swelling around the jaw, discomfort, bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, headaches, or jaw pain, it may indicate the need for wisdom tooth extraction. Even if you don’t have symptoms, regular dental visits are crucial to keep track of your wisdom teeth’s position and to catch any problems before they escalate.