For many, the idea of wisdom teeth is synonymous with discomfort and a trip to the dentist. These late-blooming teeth can be a real pain—literally. But don’t worry, understanding why wisdom teeth can cause trouble, how they’re removed, and how to take care of yourself afterward can make the whole process a lot less intimidating.

When Do Wisdom Teeth Grow?

Wisdom teeth typically show up between the ages of 17 and 25, although they can appear earlier or later. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. However, some lucky folks might have fewer, or even none at all. The problem with wisdom teeth is that they often don’t have enough room to grow properly. This lack of space can lead to a variety of issues, making extraction necessary for many people.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Hurt?

There are a few reasons why wisdom teeth can cause pain. When there isn’t enough room for them to come in, wisdom teeth can get stuck or “impacted.” This means they’re trapped under the gum or pushing against other teeth, causing pain and swelling. Sometimes, wisdom teeth only partially break through the gums, creating a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria, leading to infections and discomfort. As wisdom teeth push their way in, they can crowd your existing teeth, leading to misalignment and pain. Additionally, wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them hard to clean, which can lead to cavities and gum disease, both of which can be painful.

Wisdom Teeth Removal: How and Why

Dentists often recommend removing wisdom teeth to prevent or resolve issues like pain, infection, and crowding. You might need to have your wisdom teeth removed if they are impacted, causing pain or infection, there isn’t enough room in your mouth, they’re damaging neighboring teeth, or they are at risk of developing cysts or tumors.

The Removal Process

Before the procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will examine your mouth and take X-rays to see the position of your wisdom teeth. This helps them determine the best way to remove them. You’ll receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your needs and the complexity of the extraction. During the procedure, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue if the tooth is impacted. Sometimes, a small amount of bone covering the tooth needs to be removed. The tooth is then carefully extracted. In some cases, the tooth may be broken into smaller pieces to make removal easier. Once the tooth is out, stitches might be used to close the extraction site. Some stitches dissolve on their own, while others need to be removed later.

Aftercare Tips

Taking care of yourself after wisdom teeth extraction is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some tips to help you heal:

• Control Bleeding: Bite gently on a gauze pad placed over the extraction site. Change the gauze as needed until bleeding stops, which usually takes a few hours.
• Manage Pain and Swelling: Use over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your dentist. Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Stick to Soft Foods: For the first few days, eat soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the extraction site.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot forming in the socket, leading to a painful condition known as dry socket.
• Keep Your Mouth Clean: After the first 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to reduce swelling and keep the area clean. Be gentle and avoid vigorous rinsing.
• Rest and Relax: Give your body time to heal. Avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of rest for the first few days after surgery.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
• Follow Up: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure your mouth is healing properly. If you experience severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your dentist or surgeon immediately.

Getting your wisdom teeth out might sound scary, but with the right care and information, it doesn’t have to be. By knowing why they need to be removed and how to take care of yourself afterward, you can make the whole experience a lot smoother.

Guelph Family Dentistry is here to make sure your wisdom teeth extraction goes as comfortably as possible. They’ll guide you through every step of the way, making sure your smile stays healthy and bright.