The term ‘wisdom teeth’ or ‘third molars’ is common, but not everyone is well-informed about their characteristics, eruption timing, or the possible complications they may bring to our oral health, influencing both our teeth and adjacent tissues.
The perception of wisdom teeth being connected to pain is widespread, but it’s important to note that not everyone encounters discomfort, and complications are not uniform. The following information will provide answers to these queries.
2. What causes wisdom tooth pain?
– Presence of caries in the wisdom tooth:
– Pericoronitis:
– Cysts
Wisdom teeth, also referred to as third molars, constitute the last four molars found on each side of the jaws, positioned behind the second molars.
Named ‘wisdom teeth’ because of the age at which they erupt, individuals at this stage usually exhibit a more advanced and complete level of wisdom than when the rest of the permanent dentition appears
Typically, these teeth emerge in humans between the ages of 18 and 25, but they may never surface. Alternatively, they can appear earlier or later in life, with only a subset of them erupting.
The presence of wisdom teeth can be linked to our ancestors, whose well-developed jaws were adapted for consuming food requiring extended chewing. This adaptation provided sufficient space for the appearance of wisdom teeth.
With changes in the human diet, smaller jaws evolved, leading to the occurrence of wisdom teeth growing in irregular directions or shapes today, driven by limited space.
Numerous patients with impacted third molars may remain asymptomatic, but if discomfort is reported, it is often due to infection, commonly associated with pericoronitis. Possible observations include:
In the case of requiring extraction of wisdom teeth either by presenting symptoms that harm the patient extraction is performed according to the following procedure:
Extraction may be required for a wisdom tooth with insufficient space or impaction, leading to pain, infection, or other dental complications. If the wisdom tooth is deeply impacted or demands a comprehensive surgical procedure, your dentist may suggest a consultation with an oral surgeon.
This procedure can often be done at the Channel Islands Family Dental and by our dentists in Ventura.
Pain, swelling, and potential bleeding are expected outcomes after the extraction of a wisdom tooth.
During the healing process, it is crucial to avoid disturbing the blood clot or causing harm to the recovering gums. Additionally, stick to a soft diet in the initial days following the procedure. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and steer clear of the extraction site.
Wisdom tooth extraction typically involves a recovery period of three to four days, although it may extend beyond a week. The duration of recovery is contingent upon the severity of the impacted wisdom teeth and their eruption patterns.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a safe way to relieve wisdom tooth pain and also help reduce inflammation.
When an infection is identified, our dentists in Ventura or our oral surgeon may advise the use of antibiotics, either before or after wisdom tooth extraction, as long as they are prescribed.
If you are suffering from wisdom tooth pain or suspect wisdom tooth pain, don’t hesitate to visit us at Channel Islands Family Dental.
At Channel Islands Family Dental, we look forward to your visit and will make a timely diagnosis. In addition, our dentists in Ventura will be able to guide you to the best treatment to take care of your health.
Español
