Wisdom teeth are the molars, back teeth that come through last and furthest back in your mouth. They usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, but not everyone has them. Wisdom teeth are often a source of significant discomfort and dental complications. Patients frequently seek relief from the pain and discomfort associated with wisdom teeth. While various temporary solutions exist, extraction remains the only long-term treatment for alleviating wisdom teeth pain. In this blog, we will explore why extraction is the best course of action, what patients can expect during and after the procedure, and why early intervention is often recommended.
Understanding The Problem
Why do wisdom teeth cause pain? Wisdom teeth usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, a period when the jaw has often stopped growing. This is because the roots of the wisdom teeth sometimes develop and grow up against the sinus cavity, causing immense pressure and pain. As an impact wisdom tooth may:
- grow at an angle toward the next tooth, the second molar.
- grow at an angle toward the back of the mouth
- grow at a right angle to the other tooth
- growing straight up or down like other teeth but staying trapped within the jawbone
When the wisdom teeth come through in the wrong position, people may experience the following:
- pain, swelling, or stiffness in the jaw
- swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
- difficulty in opening the mouth or chewing
- bad breath
- inflammation and infection, etc.
Temporary Solutions
Why are they not enough? Patients experiencing wisdom teeth pain may initially seek over-the-counter pain relievers or antibiotics. While these options can provide temporary relief, they do not address the root cause of the problem. Some of these temporary measures include:
- Ibuprofen
- Use Over-the-counter ✓Numbing Gel
- Antibiotics
- Oral Rinses And Home Remedies
The Case Of Extraction
A permanent solution: Extraction of wisdom teeth is the most effective long-term solution to prevent ongoing pain and potential complications. The immediate pain relief after extraction is followed by lasting benefits.
- decreases the discomfort, contributing to long-term relief
- influences psychological well-being, enhancing confidence and reducing dental anxiety
- The absence of wisdom teeth improves accessibility for cleaning, simplifying the dental care routine. This reduction in complexity enhances oral hygiene practices, reducing the long-term side effects related to poor oral hygiene
To cut it short, extraction is the best course of action for many patients, especially those who have limited space in their jaws, to ensure long-term oral health.
What To Expect During And After The Extraction?
Patients often have concerns regarding the process of extraction, especially regarding pain and recovery.
The Procedure: Wisdom teeth extraction is a routine procedure, which means you go home the same day. Your surgeon may suggest medicines to help you feel calm or less anxious during the procedure, and your dentist or oral surgeon may use one of three types of anesthesia;
- local anesthesia
- sedation anesthesia
- general anesthesia
After The Procedure: As you heal from your surgery, follow your dentist’s instructions on:
- Bleeding: Use cold water rinses or ice packs to stop or lessen bleeding.
- Pain Management: You may be able to manage pain with a pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or a mix of both.
- Swelling And Bruising: Use an ice pack as directed by your dentist Mermaid Waters.
- Activity: after your surgery, plan to relax for the rest of the day. Try not to participate in any activity that uses a lot of energy for at least a week.
- Beverages: Drink a lot of water after the surgery. Don’t drink alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated, or hot beverages in the first 24 hours.
- Foods: eat only soft foods for the first 24 hours.
- Cleaning Your Mouth: Don’t brush your teeth, rinse your mouth, spit, or use mouthwash during the first 24 hours after surgery.
- Tobacco Use: Use of tobacco can delay healing. If you smoke, don’t do so for at least 72 hours after surgery.
- Stitches: You may have stitches that dissolve within a few weeks, or you may not have any stitches.
Recovery Time
Most patients recover within a week, although complete healing of the extraction site may take longer. By providing patients with clear information and guidance, we can help them feel more at ease about the extraction process and its benefits.
Why Early Intervention Is Key
As a dentist in Broadbeach, you may encounter patients who delay addressing their wisdom teeth issues, often due to fear or misconceptions about the procedure. Removing wisdom teeth before the roots are fully developed can make the extraction process easier and reduce the risk of complications. Early removal can prevent the development of more severe issues like infections, cysts, or damage to adjacent teeth. Addressing wisdom teeth problems early can save patients from more expensive and complex treatments down the road.
By educating patients about the importance of timely extraction, you can help them avoid unnecessary pain and ensure better oral health outcomes.
Conclusion: Long-Term Relief Through Extraction
While temporary solutions may offer short-term relief, they do not address the underlying issues caused by wisdom teeth. Extraction remains the only definitive, long-term solution for patients suffering from wisdom teeth pain. As a dentist Broadbeach Waters, you play a crucial role in guiding your patients toward the best course of action, ensuring they receive the care they need to maintain a healthy and pain-free smile.
If you’re a patient searching for a dentist near you in Broadbeach, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice and consider the benefits of wisdom teeth extraction for long-term relief. Your oral health is an investment, and addressing wisdom teeth issues promptly can lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles.