Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While these teeth can be a valuable asset to a healthy mouth, they often cause complications that necessitate their removal. For residents of Kolkata, understanding the implications of wisdom teeth and the process of their removal is crucial to maintaining optimal oral health.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop. Historically, they were necessary for our ancestors who had larger jaws and needed extra teeth for grinding down plant tissue. However, due to evolutionary changes, modern humans have smaller jaws, which means there’s often insufficient space for wisdom teeth to emerge correctly. This lack of space can lead to impaction, where the wisdom teeth become trapped in the jawbone or gum tissue.
Common Problems Associated with Wisdom Teeth
The most common problems caused by wisdom teeth include:
- Impaction: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge or grow normally, they can become impacted, causing pain and swelling.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria, leading to infection.
- Crowding: Erupting wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth, causing alignment issues or crowding.
Why Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Necessary?
Removal of wisdom teeth is often recommended for the following reasons:
- Preventing Infection: Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can lead to repeated infections in the gums.
- Reducing Crowding: Extracting wisdom teeth can prevent them from damaging adjacent teeth and reducing the risk of crowding.
- Alleviating Pain: Wisdom teeth can cause significant pain and discomfort. Removal can alleviate these symptoms.
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure
In Kolkata, as in many parts of the world, wisdom tooth removal is a standard procedure performed by experienced dentists and oral surgeons. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Consultation and Examination: Your dentist will take X-rays to determine the position of the wisdom teeth and assess any potential issues.
- Anesthesia: Depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level, you may receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia.
- Extraction: The dentist will make an incision in the gum to remove the tooth, possibly cutting it into smaller pieces to minimize the impact on the surrounding bone.
- Post-Extraction Care: After the procedure, you will receive instructions on how to care for your mouth as it heals. This includes managing pain, swelling, and preventing infection.
Choosing the Right Dentist in Kolkata
When selecting a dentist or oral surgeon for wisdom tooth extraction in Kolkata, consider the following:
- Experience and Credentials: Ensure that the dentist is experienced in oral surgeries and has a good track record.
- Facility and Equipment: Choose a clinic equipped with the latest dental technology and adheres to high hygiene standards.
- Patient Reviews: Look for testimonials and reviews from previous patients to gauge their satisfaction with the care received.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth removal is a common yet essential procedure for maintaining oral health, especially if your wisdom teeth are causing problems. Residents of Kolkata have access to skilled dentists and state-of-the-art dental clinics. If you are experiencing discomfort or suspect your wisdom teeth are impacted, consult with a local dentist to explore your options.
Dr Kamlesh Kothari, MDS, DND, DICOI, is a dental implant specialist, cosmetic
dentist and maxillofacial surgeon, Kolkata. He is the founder and clinical director
of Aesthetica 2/7 Sarat bose road, Vasundhara building. He can be contacted at
9830183000, 40035900, www.aesthetica.co.in and Insta profile –
drkamleshkothari.