Signs you may need wisdom teeth removed

In this guide to wisdom teeth, we offer an overview of what they are, whether they are problematic and some tips on getting them removed if necessary.

What are wisdom teeth?

Located at the rear of the mouth, wisdom teeth are also known as third molars.

The term ‘wisdom’ reflects the fact these are typically the last adult teeth to grow. This process usually affects people aged between 17 and 25, although not everybody has them.

While they can bolster your jawbone with extra support, wisdom teeth are not generally needed. As humans have evolved and eating habits changed, their utility has declined. Most people do not have space in their mouth for a third set of molars, and most dentists see them as vestigial, or unnecessary, features of our oral setup.

Conditions and disorders

For people whose wisdom teeth grow in normally, there isn’t an issue. But for others, they can get trapped in gums or the jawbone.

Research has found that over 70% of young European people have at least one affected wisdom tooth. If they don’t come through as they should, that means they’re impacted and vulnerable to infections, cysts, cavities and other complications such as gum disease. They can also affect adjoining teeth or even lead to neoplasm or tumours. These are some examples of when it may be necessary to get them professionally removed.

Common symptoms of problematic wisdom teeth

There are a number of ways to identify whether your wisdom teeth are causing issues. You may feel facial pain, caused by wisdom teeth exerting pressure on nerves. There may also be jaw pain, tenderness or wisdom tooth pain.

Some patients record swelling, redness or bleeding gums in the immediate wisdom teeth area. There might be incidences of a pericoronitis infection, which is a sensation of pus, pressure or an unpleasant taste or bad breath, known as halitosis. Others report jaw stiffness and issues opening their mouth or food stuffs getting trapped behind molars.

Signs of broader dental issues

There could also be indications of wider dental problems. These include crowded, shifting or realigned teeth, prompting bite complications, tooth damage, decay and plaque, and systemic symptoms such as sinuses, fever or chills.

Getting wisdom teeth removed

People all of all ages can get their wisdom teeth taken out. Following an X-Ray, a dentist or, if necessary, a maxillofacial surgeon will usually operate using a local anaesthetic.

Upper wisdom teeth tend to easier to extract than lower ones Once the tooth is removed, it won’t grow back. There won’t be any future need for teeth that provide no biting or chewing capability.

In some situations, a dentist may conclude there is a high risk of damage to the nerves surrounding your tooth. Patients in this scenario might be offered a coronectomy. This is a procedure where the crown of the tooth is taken out but some of the root is left in place. This may help to reduce the chances of nerves around the tooth being damaged.

Recovery

Wisdom tooth removal can lead to mild swelling for up to two days following surgery. Some patients may experience difficulty opening their mouth, tiredness, bad breath or heightened sensitivity in the affected area. It may take several hours for natural feeling to return to the face and jaw area.

Patients may need to take pain killers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, as the numbness subsides. In some instances, antibiotics may be prescribed if there is evidence of an infection.

Full soft-tissue healing should complete within two weeks. Most patients are able to pursue daytime activities after about 72 hours, although it is advised to avoid energetic sports for a week.

It is important to follow aftercare consumption advice and restrict yourself to soft foods and rinses. It is best to avoid alcohol and very hot or cold beverages. A wrapped ice pack in a towel may assist with any swelling or stiffness in the jaw, and it is important to keep the wound clean as it heals – particularly in the first 24 hours – using mouthwash or salt water. If you find you are still suffering unpleasant symptoms after two or three days, it is recommended you speak to your dentist.

To find out more about wisdom tooth removal in Chester, call our team at Art of Dental Care now to set up an appointment.