Getting Wisdom Teeth Removed

Wisdom teeth in the mouth are the third set of molars that erupt in the adult mouth, and normally make their appearance between ages 18 and 25. However, in some people, they simply fail to appear completely.

If they are in a normal position, and functioning normally, then there is no reason to remove them. However, there is often not enough space in the gums to accommodate them, or they become impacted below the gum, and press on the adjacent teeth.

Usually this means they cause all kinds of problems, including abscesses, periodontal problems and carries on both the wisdom teeth themselves, as well as on the adjoining teeth.

This is why they are so frequently removes, as a result of the lack of space; they are prevented from erupting correctly. Generally, wisdom teeth are removed between the ages of 16 and 25.

This is because by this stage they have not had time to do any real damage. In addition, the roots of the wisdom teeth are still quite short.

Once the teeth are fully developed, their roots are very long, and because they tend to grow sideways they can actually endanger your jaw’s nerve system, as well as all the surrounding tooth structures if not removed in time.

Wisdom teeth are often removes in the dentist’s chair under local anesthetic. This is assuming that the teeth are easy to extract. In more complicated cases, the services of a maxillo facial or dental surgeon may be required.

As described, the teeth are removed under general anesthetic, requiring a day’s stay at a hospital or day clinic. There may be a lot of swelling in the area afterward; because of this it is vital to follow your dentist or surgeon’s instructions with regard to prescription medication and other vital precautions.