Understanding Why People Need Their Wisdom Teeth Removed | The Gentle Dentists Shelby Township
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, and most people have either experienced it themselves or know someone who has. The internet is filled with humorous videos of people acting silly post-surgery, but beyond the laughs, wisdom teeth removal is an important dental health decision for many. Here’s a closer look at why wisdom teeth often need to be removed and what you can expect from the procedure.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars, typically emerging between the ages of 17 and 21. Located at the very back of the mouth, they are the last of your teeth to develop. While they can be helpful for chewing in some cases, many people experience issues with their wisdom teeth due to lack of space or alignment problems. In such cases, extraction is often the best solution to maintain overall oral health.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth are those that fail to emerge fully, remaining trapped beneath the gums. This impaction can cause pain, swelling, and irritation along the gums and jaw. In severe cases, impacted teeth can damage surrounding bone and teeth, leading to more complex dental issues. - Infections and Cysts
Partially or fully impacted wisdom teeth can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to painful infections. Cysts can also form around these teeth, further complicating oral health and sometimes requiring surgical removal to prevent damage to surrounding teeth and jawbone. - Alignment Issues
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow straight, they may push against neighboring teeth, causing overcrowding. This can shift the alignment of your teeth, affecting not only the look of your smile but also your bite and overall oral function.
What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Many patients worry about the recovery process after wisdom teeth removal, especially after seeing videos of people heavily medicated post-surgery. While it’s one of the most common dental surgeries, it does require some measure of anesthesia and careful aftercare.
- Anesthesia Options: Most patients receive local anesthesia, numbing the area around the teeth, while some opt for general anesthesia.
- The First 24 Hours: Expect some swelling, pain, and bruising, but these symptoms generally subside within a few days.
- Returning to Normal Activities: Most people feel well enough to return to work or school 1 to 2 days after the procedure, though full recovery may take a week.
By following post-operative care instructions—such as avoiding hard foods, using ice packs, and taking prescribed pain medication—most patients recover smoothly without complications.