So, your wisdom teeth are troubling you, and you’re wondering what you should do with them. Well, you’re not alone. Most people dealing with problematic wisdom teeth can resonate with you. While wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems, they often do, primarily due to lack of space in the jaw or improper alignment.
For some lucky people, their wisdom teeth erupt without causing any discomfort. In fact, some don’t even realise their growth. Others, however, find that their wisdom teeth are problematic and needs extraction or regular monitoring. But why is this happening? Keep reading, let’s find out.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth Sydney are the third molars and final set of teeth to come in at the back of your mouth. They usually erupt in your late teens or early twenties. Assume them as “late bloomers” of your teeth. Are they necessary? Yes, they were once for our ancestors. While essential for our ancestors’ diet of raw meat and tough plants, they’re now largely redundant thanks to our modern diet of cooked, soft foods, and more importantly, advanced dental treatments that aim to save the tooth.
Instead of being useful, wisdom teeth often cause issues like impaction or crowding due to limited jaw space, making them more trouble than they’re worth in most cases. That’s why dental professionals frequently recommend extraction as a preventive measure to avoid complications. Even if wisdom teeth initially appear trouble-free, regular monitoring is essential, as hidden issues can arise over time.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Problematic?
One of the significant reasons why wisdom teeth removal becomes necessary is simply due to space issues. Over time, our jaws have become smaller. There’s no room to accommodate the wisdom teeth as they arrive late. So, when there’s no space for them, they can become impacted, meaning they can’t break through the gum properly, or they might even grow sideways!
Here are some of the most common issues associated with wisdom teeth that leads to tooth extraction:
- Impaction: When the teeth don’t have enough room to emerge, they may stay trapped beneath the gum, which can cause pain, infection, and swelling.
- Crowding: If the wisdom teeth push against the surrounding molars, they can push other teeth out of alignment. This can undo the previous orthodontic treatment like if you’ve aligned your teeth with braces. Crowding because of wisdom teeth can cause teeth alignment issue and hence, removal is the best option.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, making them prime targets for infections, gum disease, and tooth decay.
- Cysts or Tumours: Though rare, impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to the development of cysts or tumours that can affect the jawbone.
While wisdom teeth can cause these problems, not everyone will experience these with their wisdom teeth. If they’ve enough room space for them to grow properly, wisdom teeth can function fully just like any other teeth. However, it’s essential to monitor them, and your dentist will order an x-ray and track their progress.
Should I Remove Wisdom Teeth?
No, not necessarily. You can keep them if you don’t face any issues. If they’re aligned properly and don’t affect your nearby teeth, your dentist may recommend keeping them.
When Should You Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal Near Me?
If you’re starting to feel pain or discomfort at the back of your mouth, it might be time to see a dentist about your wisdom teeth. Often, people start noticing discomfort when their teeth are trying to push through the gum, or when they become impacted.
Some signs that you might need your wisdom teeth removed include:
- Persistent pain or swelling in the back of your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away
- Gum infection around the wisdom teeth
Your dentist will be able to tell whether your wisdom teeth need to be extracted, or whether you’re in the clear for now.
How Much Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost?
The wisdom teeth removal cost is one of the major concerns for many patients. But, it’s hard to determine the cost as it differs from one patient to another based on several factors. There’s no such thing as the same tooth extraction price for all. Some might need a single tooth, while others may need all four teeth to be removed. Like any other medical procedure, wisdom teeth removal costs can differ based on the number of teeth to be extracted, location, the complexity of the extraction, type of anaesthesia, and additional procedure if needed. On average, the cost of wisdom teeth removal in Sydney can range from $200 to $1,500 or more, depending on how many teeth need to be removed and whether you need additional services.
If you’re looking for affordable wisdom teeth removal, there are options available, including payment plans or discounts for multiple extractions. It’s always a good idea to chat with your dentist about the costs upfront, so there are no surprises when the bill comes.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth extraction might seem to be intimidating. But, in reality, it’s a simple, standardized outpatient procedure. Millions of Aussies get their impacted wisdom teeth extracted, and it’s a safe procedure when you choose an experienced and reputed dentist.
During the initial consultation, the dentist will order an x-ray to check the growth and position of the wisdom teeth. During the removal, the extraction site will be numbed by administering anaesthesia. Then, the dentist will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth, and based on the situation, the tooth might need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal. Once extracted, the incision is closed.
After the procedure, you might experience discomfort, soreness, and swelling, which is quite normal and can be managed with medications. Following the dentist’s post-operative care instructions is the key to quick recovery. So, ensure you follow your dentist’s instructions and rest well.
When Should You Visit Dentist?
If you suspect your wisdom teeth are causing you problems, or if you’re simply unsure about whether they’re likely to cause trouble, it’s best to consult a dental professional. Not everyone will have to deal with problematic wisdom teeth, but if you do, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got a solid plan in place for removal. Keep an eye on any discomfort, book regular check-ups, and don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for advice if you’re unsure.
FAQ’s About Wisdom Teeth
1. What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually emerge in the late teens or early twenties, located at the back of the mouth.
2. Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
They often don’t have enough space to emerge properly, leading to impaction, crowding, or alignment issues.
3. How Do I Know If My Wisdom Teeth Need Removal?
Signs include pain, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, or infections near the back of your jaw.
4. How Long Does It Take to Recover After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Most people recover within a week, though minor swelling or discomfort may last a few days. Healing varies depending on the complexity of the extraction.
5. What Happens If I Ignore Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Neglecting impacted teeth can lead to infections, tooth decay, gum disease, and even cyst formation, impacting oral health.