İçerik Haritası
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, often referred to as third molars, are the final set of permanent teeth. They are typically named because they usually come in between the ages of 18 and 25. However, some people may not develop wisdom teeth, or they may remain impacted (stuck beneath the gumline).
What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause?
The eruption or impaction of wisdom teeth can lead to various problems, including:
- Pain: Wisdom teeth that erupt or become impacted incorrectly can cause pain in the mouth. Swelling, infection, and pressure on surrounding tissues can contribute to this pain.
- Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are located in the back of the mouth, making traditional oral care, such as brushing and flossing, challenging. This can result in a higher risk of tooth decay.
- Tooth Impaction: Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on surrounding teeth, leading to misalignment or shifting of adjacent teeth.
- Cyst Formation: Impacted wisdom teeth can create cysts by pressing against surrounding tissues. Cysts are fluid-filled growths in the jawbone that can cause damage to nearby structures.
The extraction of wisdom teeth is often an option to prevent or address these problems. Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess the condition of your wisdom teeth through X-rays and a dental examination. If they are impacted, infected, or at risk of causing problems, extraction may be recommended. Wisdom tooth extraction is typically performed under local anesthesia, and aftercare instructions are provided to ensure proper healing of the extraction sites.