The third molars are also called the “Wisdom teeth,” and they are often known to become a source of discomfort and infection. In most cases, the third molars are also known to provide long-term dental complications if they are not cared for appropriately. Deciding on who extracts wisdom teeth is also important to make sure that the procedure is truly effective.
In this blog, our focus will be on wisdom teeth and other information related to their extraction and need for oral care, along with their timings. So, without any further ado, let us start with the topic.
Brief Overview of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are a set of molars that emerge last in the teeth development usually between the ages of 17 and might continue growing up to the age of 25. Most people develop four wisdom teeth, although you must realise that in many cases, you may have fewer or none.
In most cases, the last set of molars comes without any problems and functions as intended. However, in many cases, they might grow later than other teeth, causing major problems. When the molars develop after some time, there can be problems with space management.
Reduction in the gum space might result in complications regarding the eruption of the teeth from the gum. In many cases, there is a chance of partial eruption of the teeth that results in it becoming a place for bacterial and fungal growth. When such problems occur, it is necessary that you opt for a wisdom tooth extraction process to reduce oral discomfort.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Need Removal?
For most people, the wisdom teeth extraction does not need to be conducted, and everything appears and occurs normally. However, in many cases, there is a need for help to remove the wisdom teeth. Some of them are:
- Wisdom teeth fail to emerge from the jaw
- Grow at an angle that affects neighbouring teeth
- Crowding in low space causes multiple discomforts
- Cysts or infections due to eruption of the teeth
- Pain and swelling of gums
Therefore, when such problems are seen, it is generally required to perform preventive removal of the teeth. X-rays are also used in some cases to reveal the damage or problems with the eruption inside the jaws.
Understanding who extracts wisdom teeth depends on the complexity revealed after processes like X-rays. If the conditions are not that gruesome, a typical dentist with conventional equipment may handle the extraction. However, for super-complicated growths that affect multiple teeth, an expert surgeon becomes necessary.
Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth
When you recognise the signs and symptoms of wisdom teeth growth, there is a chance to prevent serious issues. Some of the common symptoms that indicate a need for teeth extraction or professional help are as follows:
- Pain or tender feeling at the back of the mouth or the jaw
- Swelling of the gums and cheeks
- Typically, bleeding gums near your wisdom teeth (showing redness and inflammation)
- Facing difficulty in opening your mouth fully
- Bad breath or persistently unpleasant taste in your mouth (blood-like taste), which indicates infection
- Headache or jaw stiffness arising from the molar area
These symptoms are mainly known to indicate that your teeth are affected and some damages are done due to wisdom teeth growth. It is ideal that you choose to visit a dentist who performs wisdom teeth extraction to prevent further complications.
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction might vary as per the technique of removal or its complexity. Complete healing of the gum may take up multiple weeks or days, and pain may last a few more weeks after the molar recovery site heals.
When Do You Need an Oral Surgeon?
An oral surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon is often the only one who removes wisdom teeth. They have years of experience and knowledge to deal with complex cases which general dentists may not possess. Oral surgeons are needed if:
- Wisdom teeth affecting your jawbone
- Wisdom teeth roots are unusually shaped, or they are close to vital nerves and sinuses
- An infection persists that requires surgical help
- Medical complications or other health conditions which require special care
- Dental X-rays state that there is a higher risk of nerve damage
Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction may vary, and complex cases need additional considerations for their treatment. Post-surgical care might also be needed to make sure that the complexities are addressed positively.
Role of a General Dentist in Wisdom Tooth Extraction
If you do not have many complications, the whole scenario can be managed by a general dentist. A typical visit to a dentist with wisdom teeth extraction is as follows:
- Conducts initial analysis of the site with X-ray
- Performs extraction processes when the teeth are partially exposed outside the gums
- Follow-up care and hygiene to prevent any other complications
- Medications like painkillers for managing pain
Choosing who removes wisdom teeth is not about choosing one professional over the other; it depends on the case complexity and requirements. Dentists know the method to carry out extractions, but in case of complicated growth, usually the case is referred to a surgeon.
Final Thoughts
Understanding wisdom tooth extraction is all about identifying the unique growth patterns and taking effective actions. A general dentist can manage simple extractions that avoid complexities; however, complex cases might need maxillofacial surgeons.
If you are having similar concerns related to wisdom tooth removal, opt for Smileoracles. They are experts in providing care and support for helping you get rid of problems related to molar eruptions. Please take the right step today and contact them to resolve problems in your wisdom teeth growth and take effective actions for maintaining good oral health.