Wisdom teeth extraction is a dental procedure where the third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, are removed from the mouth. This extraction is often performed by a dentist or an oral surgeon. The process involves numbing the area with local anesthesia or administering general anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable during the procedure.
If a person doesn't get their wisdom teeth extracted, several potential issues may arise, though not everyone experiences problems with their wisdom teeth. The most common issues associated with impacted or poorly aligned wisdom teeth include:
Crowding: Wisdom teeth may push against neighboring teeth as they attempt to emerge, causing crowding, shifting, or misalignment of the other teeth. This can affect the overall bite and alignment of the teeth.
Impaction: Wisdom Teeth Extractions can become impacted, meaning they don't have enough space to fully emerge through the gum line. Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth can lead to inflammation, infection, and pain.
Infections and Gum Disease: Due to their location at the back of the mouth, it can be challenging to clean wisdom teeth properly. This can make them more susceptible to infections, cavities, and gum disease.
Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, cysts or tumors may develop around impacted wisdom teeth, which can lead to more serious dental and oral health issues.
Pain and Discomfort: Wisdom teeth that are impacted or coming in at an awkward angle can cause persistent pain, discomfort, and even headaches.
Not everyone will experience problems with their wisdom teeth. Some individuals have enough space in their jaw to accommodate these teeth without causing any issues.