Remove wisdom teeth, prevent problems and pain.

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last molars to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Although they can be useful if they erupt properly, they often cause problems because there is not enough space in the jaw. As a result, they can grow crooked, erupt only partially, or become stuck (impacted).

Wisdom teeth sometimes need to be removed when they:

  • Causing pain: This usually occurs due to the pressure they exert on the adjacent molars.

  • Causing inflammation: This is caused by the accumulation of bacteria and food debris around a wisdom tooth that has only partially erupted.

  • Damage to adjacent teeth: Misaligned wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the roots of the second molar, which can lead to wear, tooth displacement, or even loss of the tooth adjacent to the wisdom tooth.

  • Causing cavities or cysts: Due to their awkward position, wisdom teeth are difficult to keep clean, which increases the risk of cavities and, in rare cases, cysts in the jawbone.

How are they removed?

The removal of a wisdom tooth is a routine procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. The treatment is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel anything. The procedure can vary from a simple extraction to surgical removal, depending on the position of the tooth. In surgical removal, the doctor makes a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. Sometimes the tooth is divided into pieces to facilitate extraction. The wound is then sutured and a gauze pad is placed to stop the bleeding.

Aftercare following treatment

Proper aftercare is crucial for a quick recovery and to prevent complications. Here are some important steps:

  • Gauze and bleeding: Keep the gauze on the wound for 30-60 minutes. It is normal for a little blood to continue to come from the wound.

  • Swelling and pain: To reduce swelling, you can hold an ice pack against your cheek for the first 24 hours. Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can relieve the pain.

  • Food and drink: Do not eat hot, spicy, or hard foods for the first 24 hours. Choose soft, cold foods. Do not drink alcohol or smoke, as this slows down the healing process.

  • Oral hygiene: Brush gently on the first day, but avoid the area around the wound. From the second day onwards, you can gently rinse with salt water to keep the wound clean.

  • Activity: Avoid strenuous physical activity during the first few days after the procedure.

Always follow your dentist or oral surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure that your recovery goes as smoothly as possible.

X-ray for wisdom teeth prior to tooth extraction or removal of tooth or molar