Question 1

What are wisdom teeth?

Accepted Answer

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, they can cause trouble if there isn't enough room for them to grow properly. This can lead to pain, infections, and even damage to nearby teeth. Dentists often suggest removing wisdom teeth in such situations to prevent these issues and promote oral health.

Wisdom Teeth

Question 2

Do wisdom teeth need to be removed?

Accepted Answer

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. It depends on various factors, such as the individual's oral health, the position and alignment of the teeth, and whether they are causing any problems. If the wisdom teeth are growing properly, fully erupted, and easy to clean, they may not require removal.

However, in many cases, wisdom teeth can become impacted or grow at odd angles due to a lack of space in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infections, damage to adjacent teeth, and other oral issues. In such situations, dentists often recommend wisdom tooth extraction to prevent further complications.

It's best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon who can assess your specific situation and provide personalised advice. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor the development of wisdom teeth and determine whether extraction is necessary.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Question 3

What Does It Mean When I Hear About "Impacted" Wisdom Teeth?

Accepted Answer

"Impacted" wisdom teeth are those that haven't fully erupted or grown into the proper position. Lack of space can cause them to become trapped, leading to pain, swelling, and potential infections. They can also affect neighbouring teeth. Dentists often suggest removing impacted wisdom teeth through surgery to prevent complications.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Question 4

How do I manage pain before emergency wisdom teeth removal?

Accepted Answer

To manage pain before an emergency wisdom teeth removal, consider the following steps:

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Take non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the dosage instructions on the label.
Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution to help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
Avoid Certain Foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid anything that could irritate the area, such as hot, spicy, or hard foods.
Elevation: Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, to minimise swelling and discomfort.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but avoid using straws, as the suction can increase pain or cause complications.

Question 5

What are the risks of delaying emergency wisdom teeth extraction?

Accepted Answer

Delaying emergency wisdom teeth extraction can lead to several risks and complications:

Infection: An impacted or partially erupted wisdom tooth can lead to serious infections, which may spread to other areas of the mouth or even beyond, requiring more complex treatment.
Increased Pain: Prolonging the removal can exacerbate pain and discomfort, making it more difficult to manage and increasing the need for stronger pain relief.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Wisdom teeth that are not extracted in a timely manner can exert pressure on neighbouring teeth, potentially causing alignment issues or damage.
Development of Cysts or Tumours: Persistent issues with wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumours in the jawbone, which may require additional surgical interventions.
Complicated Extraction: Delaying the procedure might result in the tooth becoming more impacted or embedded, making the extraction more complex and increasing the risk of complications during the surgery.

Prolonged Recovery: The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the extraction will involve a more complicated procedure, which can extend the recovery time and increase the risk of postoperative issues.

Question 6

How is emergency wisdom teeth removal different from routine removal?

Accepted Answer

Emergency wisdom teeth removal differs from routine removal primarily in its urgency and the context of the procedure. Routine wisdom teeth removal is planned and scheduled in advance, allowing time for a comprehensive evaluation, preparation, and discussion of the procedure. In contrast, emergency wisdom teeth removal is performed in response to sudden complications such as severe pain, infection, or impaction that require immediate attention. This urgent approach often involves quick decision-making to address the immediate issue, potentially with fewer preparatory steps and sometimes under more challenging conditions. The procedure might be done in emergency settings, and recovery might require additional follow-up care to ensure proper healing.

Removing wisdom teeth for better oral health