The wisdom teeth are the last tooth in the row of the three molars that make up the back of each row of teeth. A fair amount of dental issues faced in adults arise from not getting the wisdom teeth removed at the recommended time. Most dental professionals agree wisdom teeth should be removed between the ages of 16 and 22. The following reasons are why it is wise to get your wisdom teeth removed.
Wisdom Teeth Often Don’t Grow in Correctly
Most people don’t have the room in their mouth for their wisdom teeth. The wisdom teeth are often “impacted”, which means its growth is blocked by the other molars. This causes the tooth to stay below the gum line and causes extreme discomfort. This often happens within the recommended time frame for removal, but it could become a problem later in life. The reason behind the recommended age range is the root is not yet fully developed, which makes removal and recovery easier.
Emergency Removals Can Be Costly
While it may seem strange to voluntarily get a surgery, there is some logic to getting one’s wisdom teeth removed before it is an emergency. The pain at the emergency level is excruciating. It’s virtually impossible to maintain one’s normal level of focus at work or school, and one’s performance suffers as a result. Recovery from an emergency surgery could take up to a week, and taking off of work or school for a week is a luxury most people don’t have. It’s important to schedule an appointment with a dentist as soon as you feel steady discomfort in your wisdom teeth.
What to Expect When Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
The phobia of dental surgery is fairly common, which is why several people avoid getting their wisdom teeth out until it is absolutely necessary. As long is one is prepared on what to expect, then there is no reason for anxiety over the surgery. Patients have the option of using Anesthetic or staying awake. It is highly recommended for patients to use anesthetic if they are not allergic, as it is vital for the patient to remain still. The sound of the drill often causes patients to flinch, which can lead to an error. The anesthetic is administered along with a numbing agent, and then the patient wakes up and the surgery is complete.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Right after the surgery, patients may feel disassociation and disorientation as a result of the anesthetic. Once this wears off, the patient feels the pain of the surgery for the first time. Painkillers are usually prescribed to manage this pain. For the next three to five days, the patient routinely washes out the area with a gentle rinse. A gauze pad is kept in the mouth to prevent food particles from getting lodged in the wound. Those who smoke are especially prone to dry sockets, which is when the clot comes dislodged and exposes the nerve.
Conclusion
Once one feels discomfort in their wisdom teeth, the first call made should be a dental professional. Ironically, the true wisdom surrounding wisdom teeth is to get them out before they become an emergency.
