Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get between 17 to 25 years old. Some people don’t even have them.
In reality, not all wisdom teeth are necessarily bad. For a minority of people, they can even be helpful if the teeth are properly aligned and healthy. But most of the time, wisdom teeth are misaligned and one to four of them need to be removed depending on the patient.
To be safe, it is best to make an appointment with us so our Thornhill dentist can do a proper examination on your teeth. Seeing our dentist twice a year also makes it easier to spot any problems early. They may recommend wisdom teeth removal when they:
- Cause pain or an infection
- Crowd other teeth
- Don’t have room to grow
When Should I Check My Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth removal is better and less painful when people are younger because their roots are not yet fully developed and the bone is less dense. It is ideal for the dentist to check wisdom teeth between 16 and 19 years old.
When people wait until they are older to remove their wisdom teeth, it can be a more painful and complicated procedure. Older people also take longer to recover.
What Are the Risks if Misaligned Wisdom Teeth Aren’t Removed?
When wisdom teeth are misaligned, it can have various impacts including:
- Crowding or damaging the adjacent teeth, jawbones, and nerves
- Possibly breaking through the gum if they are enclosed within the soft tissue, which creates an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection on teeth and bones
- Cause more pain if they are taken out when people are older
- The erupted wisdom teeth are also more prone to tooth decay and gum disease because their awkward position can make it hard to brush and floss properly
- Increased risk of getting cavities and gum disease at the back of your mouth
We have had many anxious patients who are nervous about the wisdom teeth removal procedure. But there is nothing to worry about because we ensure you are as comfortable as possible and use the ideal combination of anesthesia and sedation. Most people are conscious during the procedure but do not experience any pain whatsoever.
What is the Wisdom Teeth Removal Process?
Before removing your wisdom teeth, our dentist will explain the full process for your case, how to fully recover and other relevant details. You and our dentist can decide what level so sedation would be appropriate for you so you can relax or be unconscious during the procedure.
During the procedure the dentist will:
- Make an incision in the gums to expose the tooth and bone
- Remove the bone that blocks access to the tooth root
- Remove the tooth
- Clean the area of the removed tooth of any debris from the tooth or bone
- Place sutures and gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding
If you received sedation or general anesthesia, you will be taken to a recovery room after the procedure.
How Do I Recover from Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Our dentist will give you clear instructions on how to have a smooth recovery after your wisdom teeth are removed including:
Pain management
You can manage pain with an over-the-counter pain reliever or prescription medicine from the dentist.
Activity
It is best to rest after the procedure for the rest of the day. Don’t plan any strenuous activity for at least a week or the recommended time by your dentist.
Drinks
Drink a lot of water after the surgery and avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated or hot beverages in the first 24 hours. Also don’t use a straw for at least a week because sucking can dislodge a blood clot from the socket.
Food
Only eat soft foods like yogurt, smoothies or mashed potatoes for the first 24 hours. You can then slowly try semisoft foods if you can handle them. Avoid hard, hot, chewy or spicy foods that may get stuck in the socket or irritate the wound.
Contact Us
Contact us if you have questions about wisdom teeth removal or want to book an appointment.