Oral surgery: Wisdom teeth

Introduction

The removal of wisdom teeth is a common surgical procedure that affects many people between the ages of 17 and 25. These teeth, also known as third molars, can often cause problems if there is not enough space in the jaw. In such cases, oral surgery may be necessary to avoid pain and complications.

Why do wisdom teeth have to be removed?

There are several reasons why the removal of wisdom teeth is recommended:

– Lack of space:** The jaws often do not have enough space for the wisdom teeth to erupt properly. This can lead to misalignment of the other teeth.

– Inflammation: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to inflammation of the gums (pericoronitis), which is painful and uncomfortable.

– Caries: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, which makes them susceptible to caries and other dental diseases.

– Cyst formation: In some cases, cysts or tumors can form around the roots of the wisdom teeth, which can lead to further complications.

The surgical procedure

The procedure to remove wisdom teeth is usually performed on an outpatient basis and under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case. The process includes the following steps:

1. preparation: X-rays are taken before the operation to assess the position of the teeth and roots.

2. anesthesia: Anesthesia is administered to ensure that the patient is not in pain during the procedure.

3. removal: The surgeon removes the wisdom teeth by opening the gums and carefully removing the teeth. In some cases, the teeth have to be broken into pieces to make them easier to remove.

4. aftercare: After the procedure, patients are given instructions on aftercare, including taking painkillers and observing hygiene measures.

After the procedure

After the wisdom teeth have been removed, you can expect some swelling and possibly pain. Healing usually takes a few days to 1 week. Important tips for aftercare are:

– Cool the face to relieve swelling.

– Avoid hard and spicy foods for the first few days.

– Maintain good oral hygiene, but without cleaning the surgical area directly.

– Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking medication.

Conclusion

The removal of wisdom teeth is an important step in maintaining dental health. If you have any questions about oral surgery or the removal of your wisdom teeth, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team will be on hand to make the procedure as safe and comfortable as possible.