Wisdom teeth impaction is a common dental issue that can read to pain, infection, and other serious complications.
While some patients may not experience a troublesome wisdom tooth, others may need to have them extracted to avoid further dental issues.
Let’s explore wisdom teeth extraction benefits and risks so you can make an informed decision on your oral health.
Summary of the Content
- Wisdom teeth impaction is a common dental issue that can cause pain, infection, gum disease, and other complications.
- Impacted wisdom teeth occur when they do not properly erupt and become partially or fully trapped in the jaw bone or gum tissue.
- There are different wisdom tooth impactions, each with unique characteristics and risks.
- Dental imaging, especially X-rays, is critical in diagnosing impacted wisdom teeth.
- Removal of wisdom teeth involves numbing the area, creating an incision in the gum tissue, extracting the tooth, and cleaning and debriding the socket.
- The benefits of impacted wisdom teeth removal includes oral pain relief, reduced oral health issues, improved oral hygiene, and preserving the health of nearby teeth.
- Patients should regularly visit their dentist to identify potential issues and determine if impacted wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
What is Wisdom Teeth Impaction?
Wisdom teeth impaction is when the third molars, or wisdom teeth, fail to erupt properly and become partially or fully trapped with the jaw bone or gum tissue because they grow at the wrong angle.
Wisdom teeth impaction is a common occurrence due to the smaller size of the human jaw compared to our ancestors, which poses a challenge for proper growth.
It can also occur due to misalignment, lack of space, or other teeth blocking their path.
Eruption of wisdom teeth can cause discomfort, pain, infection, or damage to neighbouring teeth, so many dentists recommend their extraction.
Different Types of Wisdom Teeth Impaction
There are different impaction types, each with its unique characteristics and risks.
- Mesial Impaction:
This is the most common type of impaction, where the wisdom teeth are angled towards the front of the mouth and are pressing against the second molar. - Distal impaction:
This is the rarest type of impaction. It’s the opposite of mesial impaction, where the wisdom teeth are angled towards the back of the mouth and pressing against the back of the jaw bone. - Vertical impaction:
The wisdom teeth have fully erupted in this impaction. But they’re not in the proper position, which can result in discomfort and infection. - Horizontal impaction:
This type occurs when the wisdom tooth is positioned horizontally and facing the adjacent tooth rather than vertically in line with the jaw. This can cause the wisdom tooth to push against the adjacent tooth, potentially damaging it and causing severe pain or discomfort. - Soft tissue impaction:
This type occurs when the wisdom teeth break through the gum line but are covered by the soft tissue. It can cause pain, swelling, and infection. - Bony impaction: In this type of impaction, the wisdom teeth are still embedded in the jaw bone tissue and have not broken through the gum line. This can lead to sinus pain and discomfort and also cause damage to the surrounding teeth and gum tissue.
If you have any questions about impacted wisdom teeth removal, please don’t hesitate to contact your dentist.
Signs and Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Here are some warning signs of impacted wisdom teeth:
- Pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth
- Swelling in the gums or jaw
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Unpleasant taste due to trapped food debris
- Foul Breath
- Cavities in neighbouring teeth
- Gum bleeding or sensitivity
- Headaches or jaw pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Shifting or crowding of other teeth
It’s important to note that some people may not experience symptoms despite having impacted wisdom teeth. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help identify potential issues and determine if wisdom teeth extraction is necessary.
The Role of Dental Imaging in Diagnosing Wisdom Teeth Impaction
Dental imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing impacted wisdom teeth. X-rays, in particular, are essential for determining the correct position and orientation of your wisdom teeth and the extent of the impaction.
With the help of dental imaging, dentists can identify potential complications associated with the impaction, such as the risk of infection or damage to adjacent teeth.
Additionally, dental imaging can assist in determining the optimal treatment approach—whether it be extraction or a less invasive option.
Without dental imaging, it’s difficult to accurately diagnose impacted wisdom teeth, making it an indispensable tool for dentists in providing care for their patients.
The Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure
The wisdom tooth extraction process is a common procedure done in many dental clinics. It involves using local anesthesia to numb the area surrounding the tooth, though general anesthesia may sometimes be necessary.
Once the patient is numb, the oral surgeon will create an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone. They may also excise any bone that blocks access to the tooth root. Next, the tooth is extracted by loosening it from the jawbone and carefully removing it from the socket.
After the tooth is extracted, the socket is cleaned and debrided. Depending on the situation, the oral surgeon may place stitches to close the incision. A gauze pad is sometimes placed over the socket to control bleeding and promote clotting.
The patient is given post-operative instructions, including taking pain relievers, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and avoiding certain foods and activities while the area heals. Most patients fully recover within a few days to a week after the surgical procedure.
Benefits of Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removal
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause various dental problems, including pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. While not all impacted wisdom teeth require extraction, there are several potential benefits to having them removed.
Here are some wisdom teeth extraction benefits:
- Pain relief:
One of the most significant benefits of the surgical removal of wisdom teeth is pain relief. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause considerable discomfort, especially if pressing against other teeth or causing an infection. Extracting them can alleviate this pain and prevent it from returning. - Reduced risk of complications:
Impacted teeth increase the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, odontogenic cysts, and tumours. Extracting tooth impactions significantly reduces these risks ensuring long-term oral health. - Improved oral hygiene:
Because they’re often hard to reach with a toothbrush of floss, they can contribute to the buildup of bacteria and food particles, resulting in bad breath and other oral health issues. Extracting these teeth makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reduces the risk of these problems.
These are just some of the many wisdom teeth extraction benefits. There are numerous other benefits to wisdom teeth removal, you may talk to your dentist about them.
Risks Associated with Wisdom Teeth Extraction
While wisdom teeth extraction is generally a safe and routine procedure, there are still some potential risks and complications to be aware of. These wisdom teeth extraction risks include:
- Infection:
Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, and wisdom teeth extraction is no exception. Infections can occur in the extraction site, the surrounding gums, or even in the jawbone. - Dry socket:
This painful condition can occur when the blood clot that forms on the extraction site is dislodged or dissolved before the wound heals. A dry socket often leaves a bad taste, so keep the tooth socket moist by staying hydrated. - Nerve damage:
The roots of wisdom teeth are often very close to the nerves that supply sensation to the lips, tongue, and jaw. In rare cases, the lingual nerve can be damaged during extraction, resulting in loss of feeling or tingling in the affected area. - Sinus problems:
If the upper wisdom teeth are located close to the sinuses, extraction can sometimes cause sinus problems such as congestion, pressure, or even infection. - Bleeding:
Bleeding is a common condition and a normal part of the healing process. But, excessive bleeding can indicate a problem. If bleeding persists beyond the first day or two after surgery or is very heavy, contact your dentist immediately. - Anesthesia complications:
As with any oral surgery procedure, there is a small risk of anesthesia-related complications, including allergic reactions, breathing problems, and heart issues.
While advanced surgical techniques may reduce the associated wisdom teeth extraction risks, they may still occur.
Discussing these wisdom teeth extraction risks with your dental professional before extraction is essential. While these risks are generally low, knowing them can help you make an informed decision about your oral health care.
Aftercare and Recovery Following Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Aftercare and recovery are important aspects of impacted wisdom teeth removal to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Here are some tips to help you recover smoothly:
- Follow your dentist’s instructions:
Your dentist will provide instructions on impacted wisdom tooth removal care after the procedure. Follow them closely to ensure proper healing. - Manage pain and swelling:
You may experience pain and swelling after the procedure. Apply ice packs to your cheeks to reduce swelling, and take pain relief medication as directed. - Rest and relax:
Resting for the first day or two after the procedure can help with recovery. Avoid strenuous activities and exercises for a few days. - Maintaining good oral hygiene:
An excellent oral care routine will hasten recovery. Maintain a healthy mouth by gently rinsing with warm salt water several times daily, starting the day after the oral surgery procedure. Brush your teeth carefully and try avoiding the extraction site. - Eat soft, nutritious foods:
For the first few days after the procedure, stick to soft foods like soup, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hard, crunchy or sticky foods. You should also avoid hot foods to prevent irritation to the extraction site. - Stay hydrated:
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages for the first few days. - Monitor for complications:
Call your dentist if you experience fever, excessive bleeding, severe pain, or other signs of complications.
Following these tips can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery following wisdom teeth removal and avoid future issues.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve experienced any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above or have been told by your dentist that you have impacted wisdom teeth, seeking prompt treatment is essential.
At Byford Smiles, we offer comprehensive dental care, including wisdom teeth extraction. Our experienced team of dentists can help you determine the right course of action to address your impacted wisdom teeth and avoid any potential complications.
Don’t let wisdom teeth impaction impact your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards healthier teeth!
