About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Mentioning "wisdom teeth removal" can conjure up dozens of horror stories from those who had painful extractions of their wisdom teeth. However, not all wisdom teeth extractions are horrific, and, according to the Mayo Clinic, complications are rare. Removal of wisdom teeth is done through surgical extractions by a dentist or surgeon and requires careful after care to prevent infections and control pain.

Symptoms

• Wisdom teeth that need to be removed may cause symptoms such as jaw or mouth pain, movement of teeth and a misaligned bite.

Reasons for removal

• According to the Mayo Clinic, wisdom teeth that only partially erupt, come in at an angle or are impacted will need to be removed.

Methods

• Surgical extraction is the only method for removal of wisdom teeth and may be done by a dentist or an oral surgeon.

Anesthesia

• Local anesthesia can be used for wisdom teeth that are removed in a dentist's office, but according to the Mayo Clinic, general anesthesia may be needed for impacted wisdom teeth.

Impacted teeth

• Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not cut the gums and stay embedded in the jaw; if not removed, they may result in significant changes in the bite.

Complications

• Complications from wisdom teeth removal include prolonged numbness in the mouth, dry socket, infections and damage to the jaw bone.

After care

• Gargling with a mix of half of a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water, drinking plenty of water, eating soft foods and taking pain relievers are forms of self-care after wisdom teeth removal.