The very idea of wisdom teeth removal can seem at first to be a bit daunting. Some people choose to avoid it, and try and manage the pain, rather than having the tooth removed. But if you are in pain, or can feel your wisdom teeth coming through, here is some information to help make the decision.
What is a wisdom tooth?
Also known as the third molar, wisdom teeth are the teeth at the very back of the upper and lower jaw and the last teeth to come through. This usually occurs in the late teens to early twenties and gets the term ‘wisdom’ name for this reason. The tooth comes through when the person is purportedly ‘wiser’ than they were in their childhood.
What does it do?
It is believed the original purpose of a wisdom tooth was to help human ancestors grind up plant tissue, as we lacked the ability to digest cellulose. However, over time and as our jaws have become smaller, we no longer need the vestigial molar.
So what’s the problem?
The issue arises with how and where the wisdom tooth comes through. Sometimes the wisdom tooth comes through at an angle, pushing into the gum or tooth beside it. Dentists call this Impaction. This can lead to several symptoms, some of which are:
- Crowding of the front teeth
- Decay in the wisdom or adjacent teeth
- Infection of the surrounding gum
What should I do now?
Consult a dentist. Sunshine Dental Group care offers you wisdom teeth removal services. The experienced team of dental professionals will use to determine the best course of action for your oral health. If you are experiencing pain in a localised area, due to a wisdom tooth, they will give you a full assessment, and ‘empower you with all the information to make the right decision’. If you choose wisdom teeth removal, the Sunshine dentists will guide you through any associated risks relating to your individual case.
What about after the extraction?
Your professional dentist will talk you through the after care. But here are a few tips:
- Take pain-relieving medication if needed if advised from your oral health professional.
- Eat soft, easy-to-chew foods for the next few days.
- Hold warm salty water in your mouth. Do this after meals and no earlier than 24 hours after surgery.
- Do not smoke for 48 hours after the surgery and avoid alcohol while the mouth heals.
Reasons to get an extraction
The main reason for a wisdom tooth removal is simple. It will relieve pain, alleviate symptoms and allow for greater movement in the mouth. If you are suffering from pain, headaches or lack of mobility, do not avoid contacting a dental professional.
Call Sunshine Dental Group today
Whether you need a scale and clean or wisdom tooth removal, get in touch with Sunshine Dental Group on (03) 9311 1056 to schedule an appointment.
