Wisdom teeth also known as third molars, are the last set of adult teeth to erupt, typically they emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some wisdom teeth come in smoothly and function normally, others can cause various problems and may require removal. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about wisdom teeth, including their function, potential issues, the removal process, and recovery tips.
What Exactly Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are molars, the broad teeth located furthest back in your mouth, designed for grinding food. In the past, humans likely relied more on their wisdom teeth for chewing coarser foods. However, with the evolution of softer diets, our jaws have become smaller, often leaving limited space for wisdom teeth to erupt properly.
There are typically four wisdom teeth – two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. However, some people have fewer, some have more, and some may not have any at all.
Wisdom Teeth and Potential Problems
While some wisdom teeth erupt without complications, others can cause a variety of issues, including:
Impaction
This occurs when there’s insufficient space for the wisdom tooth to emerge fully from the jawbone or gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can press on surrounding teeth, causing pain, misalignment, and infection.
Pain and Swelling
Wisdom teeth eruption can be uncomfortable, causing pain, swelling, and tenderness in the gums and jaw.
Infection: Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth are more susceptible to food impaction and infection, leading to discomfort, swelling, and bad breath.
Damage to Nearby Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can crowd or damage existing teeth, requiring corrective treatment.
Cyst Formation
In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of fluid-filled sacs (cysts) around the tooth root, potentially damaging the jawbone.
You can find a more detailed explanation of problems associated with wisdom teeth in a separate article on our website:
Problems associated with wisdom teeth
When to Consider Wisdom Tooth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal (extraction) is a common dental procedure recommended by dentists or oral surgeons in various situations. Here are some reasons why wisdom teeth might need to be removed:
Impaction
If a wisdom tooth is impacted and causing pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth, removal is usually recommended.
Risk of Infection
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of infection. Removal might be advised to prevent future complications.
Crowding
If wisdom teeth erupt and cause overcrowding of existing teeth, potentially affecting your bite or smile, removal might be necessary to maintain proper dental alignment.
Planned Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, wisdom teeth removal might be recommended before undergoing orthodontic treatment (braces) to create space for proper tooth alignment.
To learn more about the reasons for removing wisdom teeth, visit our article:
Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
What is Wisdom Tooth Removal Process (Extraction)
Wisdom tooth removal is typically an outpatient procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. The specific procedure varies depending on the position and condition of the wisdom teeth. Here’s a general overview:
Consultation and X-rays:
Prior to removal, a consultation will be scheduled to discuss your medical history, assess the wisdom teeth, and take X-rays to determine their position and root structure.
Anesthesia
Depending on the complexity of the extraction, local anesthesia (numbing the area) or general anesthesia (putting you to sleep) might be used.
Extraction
The dentist or surgeon will access the wisdom tooth by making an incision in the gum tissue and potentially removing some bone if necessary. The tooth will then be carefully extracted.
Stitches
Stitches might be used to close the gum tissue after extraction, promoting healing.
For a more in-depth look at the wisdom teeth extraction procedure, you can visit our article:
Wisdom Teeth Extraction Procedure
Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of wisdom tooth removal varies depending on factors like the complexity of the extraction, geographic location, dentist/surgeon fees, and anesthesia type. Generally, impacted wisdom teeth requiring more extensive procedures tend to be more expensive.
Dental insurance might cover a portion of the wisdom teeth removal cost, depending on your specific plan. It’s crucial to contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage details.
We have a dedicated article explaining wisdom teeth removal costs and insurance coverage:
What Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost? Will My Insurance Cover It?