Wisdom teeth are the final teeth to develop and adjust in the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25 in most people. In some cases, wisdom teeth can progress normally with no signs of complication. However for many, the mouth area can become highly sensitive once a wisdom tooth begins to grow, which can cause discomfort, as the new tooth begins to target areas where there are existing teeth. They may grow at different angles and begin to go against teeth that are already present. They may also grow beneath the surface of gums causing disruption. This tends to cause mild pain within the area and can cause pain in other areas due to its development. When this happens it is advised to visit a dental professional, preferably a dentist in Nottingham.
Signs that a wisdom tooth may need to be removed
There are many common signs that a wisdom tooth is impacted, which gives it the inability to develop normally, this can further lead to gum and bacterial infection.
Sensitivity
When a wisdom tooth comes through there tends to be sensitivity around the back area of the mouth, mainly targeting the back molars. This pain can be described as throbbing and can affect an individual’s day-to-day life routine. It is highly recommended to inform a dentist of the pain once it has been felt, as this sensitivity should not be left untreated and requires a check-up so that it does not lead to an infection.
Development of cyst
A common sign that a wisdom tooth is in need of removing is the development of cysts around the mouth. Cysts are described as a sac/lump like pocket that develop and form around the crown of the tooth. They contain fluid and they begin to deteriorate bone structure and roots which may result in the need for surgery, this can be caused due to an untreated wisdom tooth.
Inflammation
Wisdom teeth tend to disturb gum tissue when they initially erupt, this tissue is sensitive and can become easily irritated. This causes inflammation of the gums, with certain areas becoming more of a reddish colour indicating soreness. This can affect an individual’s tooth brushing routine as it can often be painful to do.
Difficulty opening mouth
A wisdom tooth can often lead to stiffness within the jaw, this is caused by the eruption of the tooth. If the wisdom tooth develops in a restricted area of the mouth it can affect the way an individual bites. This is because the development of the tooth has caused a new structure causing the inability to open the mouth properly.
What does an extraction involve?
Before an operation can take place it is occasionally necessary to get an X-ray of a patient’s teeth. A local anaesthetic or sedation can be given to reduce pain. Dentists will use their expertise with appropriate equipment required to extract a wisdom tooth and this will be done with precision and care. It is common for swelling post surgery which can be treated with ordinary painkillers. The recovery process after this operation can be quite fast.
Aftercare of a wisdom tooth extraction
Once a wisdom tooth is extracted it is significant to maintain the aftercare of the operated- upon area. This is so that an individual can have a speedy recovery and avoid any form of infection. It is highly advised for the initial 24 hours post surgery to avoid smoking, alcohol consumption, rinsing the mouth and eating hot food. It is important to maintain oral hygiene as usual by brushing the teeth. The procedure is usually followed by swelling a few days after surgery – this can be medicated with painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Avoid touching or disrupting any formed blood clot.
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