Wisdom Tooth Extraction
When is Wisdom Tooth Extraction recommended?
Problems may arise for those whose jaws are too small to accommodate wisdom teeth. When a lower wisdom tooth is being prevented from erupting properly due to blockage of the tooth in front, it will result in an impacted wisdom tooth. The impacted wisdom tooth may sometimes give an unpleasant sensation of pressure at the back of the jaw. The gum around the impacted wisdom tooth may also trap food debris, possibly causing gum disease and/or tooth decay.
How is the Wisdom Tooth removed?
In most cases, the wisdom tooth is extracted in an operation done under local anesthesia. During the operation, the gum around the tooth is moved to one side and some bone around the tooth may be removed. Often, the tooth may need to be divided into pieces before it can be removed. The gum is then stitched back into place.
After the operation, when the anesthesia has worn off, the patient may need to take painkillers. Antibiotics may also be given to prevent infection of the wound. There is usually some swelling of the cheek which may last about 5 days. The swelling may also cause some stiffness of the jaw.
The dentist will check on the patient’s condition and remove the stitches about 5 days later.