Third molar which erupts around 18 years of age is referred to as wisdom tooth. Though most commonly associated with wisdom is actually a misnomer. Instead this tooth is notoriously famous to cause discomfort while erupting and mostly requires intervention of dentists. This blog aims to answer few common questions when dealing with wisdom teeth.
WHY SURGICAL INTERVENTION IS REQUIRED?
Surgical intervention is mostly required when wisdom tooth causes recurrent infection of the gums around it. It usually means there is insufficient space for the tooth to erupt. It usually leads to recurrent pain and swelling in the area. Pain may sometimes radiate around head and neck region too. It can also result in fever. When such symptoms are observed it is always suggested to take opinion of the dentist.
WHAT EXACTLY IS THE PROCEDURE?
Whenever a surgical procedure to remove the wisdom tooth is planned a prior x ray image is required to assess the position of tooth. Mostly the tooth is embedded in the bone or it erupts at an angulations and gets locked by the adjacent teeth resulting in failure to erupt. The angulated erupting wisdom tooth can sometimes form a pocket between the wisdom tooth and the adjacent teeth resulting in food lodgement in the area which is turn can damage the adjacent teeth also due to formation of cavity. In such situations removal of wisdom teeth is advised as it may damage the healthy erupted teeth. Now during the procedure the gums over the area is separated, bone over and around the wisdom tooth is guttered and wisdom tooth is either split into parts and removed in toto. After the removal the area is cleaned using antiseptic solution betadine and gums are sutured back into its position.
POST OP PRECAUTIONS
No spitting or rinsing mouth for 24 hours after the procedure
Having cold and soft food for next 24 hours
No crispy food like chips bhujiya fuchka for a week
Warm salt water rinse atleat thrice a day for a week after 24 hours
Ice application from outside the area for first 8 hours
No tobacco in any form for 48 -72 hours after the procedure
The procedure of surgical removal of wisdom teeth is done under anesthesia so the patient does not feel any kind of pain during the procedure. Post op complications can vary which includes swelling, restriction of mouth opening for few days , pain and or sensitivity. But these complications in most cases are mild and medications are prescribed so as to keep them in control.
We at Aesthetica Sarat Bose Road Kolkata have qualified and experienced team of doctors to make your experience of wisdom tooth removal as comfortable as possible.
