What are Wisdom Teeth?
The last set of molars on each side of jaws are called wisdom teeth.
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Wisdom teeth usually appear in early 20's. Initially wisdom teeth were used to chew hard food like meat, roots, leaves by our ancestors but with human evolution these teeth seemed useless and outlived.
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Normally wisdom teeth help to chew but when they erupt in wrong position like trapped in jaw or under the gum, such impacted wisdom teeth can create problems.
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Such problematic wisdom teeth require dentist immediately.
When is Wisdom Teeth Removal Required?
Wisdom Teeth Removal is required in the following cases:
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Wisdom teeth removal is necessary as impacted wisdom teeth can cause crowding of other teeth and can damage nearby teeth.​
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Wisdom Teeth sometimes can't emerge normally and may get impacted within jaw leading to other tooth problems like: Infection, developing cysts (fluid-filled sacs) or can damage roots of other teeth.
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Swollen gum creates space between teeth leading to bacterial infection followed by forming cavities.
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In some case, wisdom teeth may erupt in wrong angle and may press against other teeth causing pain in mouth.
Procedure for removal of Wisdom Teeth
Sometimes impacted wisdom teeth leads to various problems. In such condition dentist will recommend wisdom teeth extraction.
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Local or general anesthesia is given as per the condition of impacted wisdom teeth to numb the tooth and its surrounding.
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Small incision (cut) is made in the gum.
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Interfering bone also needs to be removed in this procedure.
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After removing wisdom teeth, dentist will stitch the wounds to seal the gum.
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Stitches will dissolve usually within 7 - 10 days.
Symptoms of impacted Wisdom Teeth
Inflammation of Gums
Inflamed Gums around the impacted Wisdom Teeth cause infection leading to pain, redness & swelling in gums.
Pain & Stiffness of Jaw
Wisdom Teeth can shift the teeth along with the jaw area causing pain and stiffness in jaw muscles while opening your mouth.
Cysts development in mouth
Cysts start developing in mouth if wisdom teeth are not treated in time. These cysts are sacs of fluid which can damage roots of surrounding teeth.
Pain / Sensitivity in mouth
Pain in back of the mouth is a sign that wisdom teeth need to be removed. You feel pain, sensitivity or throbbing sensation while brushing teeth, eating or doing nothing.
Sinus Problem
It is often connected with your dental issues including impacted wisdom teeth. If you feel pain with your sinuses or congestion, it can be an indication of wisdom teeth extraction.