Why are wisdom teeth different from other teeth?
Wisdom teeth or third molars are the last teeth to develop in the jaws. In a large percentage of the population these teeth do not have space to erupt normally into the mouth. Sometimes these teeth don’t develop at all.
Why is it recommended to have wisdom teeth extracted?
When wisdom teeth erupt normally they are harder to clean because of their position in the mouth. They also have a higher chance of developing cavities because they have deeper fissures on the biting surface. When these teeth need root canal treatment, there is a higher chance of failure due to their unpredictable root canal shapes. Many orthodontists believe that wisdom teeth can cause crowding of teeth and advise their removal before or after straightening teeth.
The gum tissue around the erupted portion of the tooth can act like a pocket trapping food and thus causing pain, swelling and infection. There is approximately a 3% chance cysts or tumors can develop around wisdom teeth and a very small percentage (0.02%) develop malignant tumors (cancer). Extraction of wisdom teeth can reduce or eliminate these risks.
If you decide not to have your wisdom teeth extracted, it is advisable to keep these areas under periodic observation.
Do I need sedation for wisdom teeth extraction?
Sedation is recommended. Sedation may be administered orally or intravenously (IV).
Oral sedation can work in some instances. However results can be unpredictable as the orally administered drug is first broken down by the liver before taking effect. The liver may breakdown most or only a little of the drug and the resultant sedation may be inadequate. Additional oral drug administration may not be predictable or safe.
IV sedation is more predictable. A small flexible catheter is inserted into a vein in the arm or hand. This takes less than 2 seconds and is almost painless. The drug is introduced directly into the blood without being metabolised by the liver for optimal results. Additional drugs can be given as needed.
What does the extraction of wisdom teeth involve?
Prior to the procedure, you will have to attend a consultation appointment. This can sometimes be done over the phone. On the day of the procedure, you will have to be escorted to the office. Remember not to eat or drink anything for six hours prior unless you have a medical condition such as diabetes that does not allow you to fast. When you arrive, you will be given a mild oral sedative to help relax you prior to the procedure. The procedure done under IV sedation is painless and takes less than an hour. Your escort will have to stay at the office until the procedure is complete and accompany you home.
A recent panoramic xray is necessary before we can extract wisdom teeth. Depending on the position of the wisdom tooth, a CT scan may be recommended.
What can I expect after my wisdom teeth are extracted?
Swelling, bruising and mild bleeding are normal after wisdom teeth are extracted. You will be prescribed medications for pain and swelling. It is important to take the medications as prescribed and to follow after care instructions.
Other complications such as numbness, pain or infection can occur. The chance of complications increases with age. The best age to have wisdom teeth extracted is late teens and early twenties.
I am sure that you have many more questions. Feel free to call us and come in for a consultation. We will gladly answer all your questions and simplify the process. If you are being referred by another dentist or denturist, please make sure that they send us your dental records.
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