WISDOM TOOTH is a third molar. It is usually appear between the ages 17 and 21

WISDOM TOOTH
or Third Molar
and Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom Tooth is a third molar. It is usually appear between the ages of 17 and 21 (look at our Dentition Guide) with root completed between 18-25 years old. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but it is possible to have a fewer (missing tooth or hypodontia).

wisdom tooth, tooth extraction, tooth removal, toothache, tooth pain, dental pain, tooth decay, gum disease

Wisdom teeth become frequently impacted due to lack of space in the jaw or jawbone. Its eruption is therefore prevented by gum, jaw, or another tooth.

This tooth commonly causes problems when it erupts partially through the gum.

Indications for Wisdom Tooth Removal

Tooth Decay

It is very difficult to remove such decay from this and next tooth. Toothache, infection and tooth abscess will usually follow.

Gum Disease (Pericoronitis)

Food and germs collect under the gum causing toothache and local infection (tooth abscess). This may result in bad breath, tooth pain, swelling and trismus (inability to open the mouth fully). The infection can spread to involve the cheek and the neck.

Pressure Pain (Toothache)

From the force of the erupting wisdom tooth against other teeth.

What to do Before Tooth Extraction

Alcohol Restrictions

Alcohol should be discontinued before and following the surgical procedure.

Transport to and from the Appointment

When a general anesthetic or light sedation is used, the patient should not drive. Plans for someone to accompany and assist the patient should be made.

The Night Before the Appointment

A good night rest is advocated.

Personal Items

The clothing worn should be loose and comfortable. The sleeves should be easily drawn up over the elbows.

Contact Lenses and Dentures

You will be asked to remove contact lenses and dentures, and should bring containers for their safe keeping.

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Overview of Surgical Tooth Removal

The soft tissues covering the tooth may be elevated.

Surrounding and overlying bone tissue could also be removed.

The tooth may be split into several pieces to ease its release.

A stronger, general anesthesia may be used, especially if several or many of your teeth need to be extracted.

You may need stitches after the tooth is removed.

You can firmly bite down on a cotton gauze pack placed over the surgical area to help stop the bleeding.

The dentist will take out the stitches a few days after.

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What to do After Tooth Extraction

Recovery period usually lasts a few days.

The following will help Speed Recovery:

Bite firmly the gauze pack over the surgical area for, at least, 1/2 hour; then discard it gently.

Do not spit, or suck through a straw, since this will promote bleeding.

Start taking your pain pills before the numbing medication has worn off.

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications or Painkillers may be used for temporary pain relief. Take these as directed on the package and around the clock. Do not overdosing on these generic drugs: ASPIRIN, IBUPROFEN, KETOPROFEN, NAPROXEN SODIUM, ACETAMINOPHEN
Do not rinse your mouth or brush your teeth for the first 12 hours after the surgical appointment. Then use warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 1/2 cup [4 ounces] of warm water) after tooth-brushing and every 2 hours.

DO NOT SMOKE for 24 hours after surgery because this will cause bleeding, pain and interfere with healing.

Get plenty of rest; at least 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. Avoid strenuous exercise during the first 24 hours, and keep the mouth from excessive movement.