Typically associated with maturity - with the well-known expression "those without wisdom teeth have no sense" - these teeth are the last molars to emerge and usually begin to appear between the ages of 16 and 20.
Sometimes there is not enough space in the jaw for wisdom teeth to grow, which causes them to remain fully or partially impacted. The extraction of an impacted wisdom tooth is a relatively simple procedure, and recovery typically takes between 3 to 4 days.
Would you like to know more about wisdom teeth and why they are usually extracted? Then keep reading and discover everything you need to know in case you need to have yours removed.
Do all people have wisdom teeth?
Not everyone has them, but they are teeth that, most of the time, cause many problems. Due to their positioning in the jaw, it becomes more difficult to maintain proper hygiene daily, often resulting in cavities, abscesses, cysts, and other issues that make it advisable to have them extracted.
However, they are sometimes extracted preventively, based on advice from a dentist, who can predict whether these will cause problems for the neighbouring teeth. For instance, there may not be enough space for all 4 wisdom teeth to develop healthily.
Do wisdom teeth cause pain?
If you are experiencing pain, you may have one of the issues we mentioned earlier: cavities, abscesses, or other conditions that cause pain. If you suffer from pain in your wisdom teeth, consult a dentist to ensure you receive the best care and diagnosis.
You may need to have the wisdom teeth extracted, or they may need to be root treated, which will help alleviate the pain and allow for a speedy recovery.
How is the recovery after the extraction of wisdom teeth?
If your dentist has advised you to undergo the extraction of one or more teeth, you should follow all the instructions they have given you. During the first 48 to 72 hours after the extraction, you should apply ice wrapped in a towel to the area of the face corresponding to the surgical site for regular intervals of 15 minutes to avoid swelling (edema) in the face and/or neck.
During the first 3 days, it is also recommended to avoid hard foods that require a lot of effort in terms of chewing, and these should preferably be consumed cold and soft. You can gradually introduce harder and warmer foods after that period.
You should also avoid intense physical exertion in the first 3 to 4 days, and it is not recommended to smoke during this period. It is important to follow your dentist's instructions regarding the necessary medication for recovery after having your wisdom teeth removed. Typically, antibiotics, corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, and oral antiseptics are prescribed, depending on the situation.
If you have questions regarding what to do about the pain from your wisdom teeth, book your appointment at MALO CLINIC now. You will find professionals in extractions who will support you in the best way to ensure a straightforward and quick recovery.
