What is a Wisdom Tooth?

What You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth

The term “wisdom tooth” refers to the third molars that emerge in the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. These teeth are located at the back of the mouth and can cause issues like pain and infection in some individuals. While some people may experience no problems when their wisdom teeth come in, others may face issues such as impaction, infection, or a lack of space. Regular dental check-ups and X-ray examinations should be done to monitor the health of your wisdom teeth, and intervention should be carried out when necessary.

What is Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process

Wisdom tooth extraction is the procedure of removing a tooth from the mouth. The tooth is typically extracted due to infection, decay, impaction, or pain. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. After numbing the area, the dentist removes the tooth. After the extraction, it is important to follow specific care instructions to speed up the healing process. Recommendations may include cleaning the area, applying ice, and taking pain-relieving medications.

How is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Performed?

Stages of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

The wisdom tooth extraction procedure is performed by a specialist dentist or an oral surgeon. The process typically includes the following steps:

  1. The dentist disinfects the area.
  2. Pain is numbed with local anesthesia.
  3. The tooth is loosened and extracted.
  4. Pressure is applied with a gauze pad to stop the bleeding.

After the extraction, there may be pain, swelling, and bleeding; however, by following the care instructions recommended by the dentist, the healing process can be accelerated.

What Are the Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth?

Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Eruption

The symptoms of wisdom teeth eruption may vary from person to person. However, common symptoms include:
  • Pain and sensitivity in the mouth
  • Swelling and redness
  • Jaw pain
  • Shifting of other teeth
  • Difficulty eating
  • Bad breath
These symptoms may indicate that the teeth are starting to emerge, but sometimes the eruption of wisdom teeth may not cause any symptoms at all. Therefore, regular dental check-ups are important.

How Many Types of Wisdom Teeth Are There?

Wisdom teeth are generally classified into three types:

  • Vertical: Erupts vertically without pressing on other teeth.
  • Horizontal: Erupts by pressing against other teeth.
Another classification method is based on the position of the tooth eruption:
  • Teeth that remain fully within the gums.
  • Teeth that are partially inside or outside the gums.
These classifications help dentists determine treatment options.

Should Wisdom Teeth Always Be Extracted?

The decision to extract wisdom teeth depends on the tooth’s position and the surrounding health. If the wisdom tooth is damaging nearby teeth, causing infection, or lacks sufficient space, it may need to be extracted. The dentist will evaluate the condition of the wisdom tooth and determine whether extraction is necessary.

Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Done with Surgery?

Some wisdom tooth extractions may require surgical intervention. The removal of impacted teeth is performed by an oral surgeon. The bone or gum tissue around the tooth is cut to access the tooth. This type of procedure is done under local anesthesia, and the recovery process is closely monitored afterward.

What is Complicated Tooth Extraction?

Complicated tooth extraction is a more difficult process than normal extractions and may involve the following risks:

  • Bleeding control
  • Risk of infection
  • Nerve damage
  • Fracture of the tooth root

Dentists perform appropriate evaluations before the procedure to prevent such complications and inform the patient.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Near the Nerve

Wisdom tooth extraction near the nerve is a delicate procedure. The proximity of the tooth to the nerve tissue increases the risk of nerve damage during extraction. In such a procedure, the dentist uses special techniques to avoid damaging the nerve. Local anesthesia is used to block pain, and a careful approach is maintained throughout the procedure.

In Which Situations Can Wisdom Teeth Be Extracted?

  • Crooked Teeth: Wisdom teeth that come in crooked by pressing against other teeth.
  • Cavities and Infection: When the tooth is decayed or infected.
  • Lack of Space: Wisdom teeth that are impacted due to lack of space in the mouth.
The dentist evaluates these situations and decides whether the wisdom teeth need to be extracted.

What Problems Can Problematic Wisdom Teeth Cause?

Problematic wisdom teeth can cause the following discomforts:

  • Pain and swelling
  • Jaw pain and headaches
  • Gum infections
  • Crooked teeth by pressing against other teeth
To avoid these issues, regular dental check-ups and professional interventions are important.

Does an Impacted Tooth Erupt on Its Own?

Impacted teeth typically remain within the jawbone and do not erupt on their own. Surgical intervention by an oral surgeon may be required to remove impacted teeth. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia or sedation, and the recovery process is carefully monitored.