The last teeth to erupt in your mouth are the third molars. These molars are more commonly known as wisdom teeth because they come in during the young adult years, or the age of wisdom. Learn more about why these teeth are removed, how they are removed, and problems you should watch out for afterwards.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
Wisdom teeth usually cannot fit in your mouth, which often results in them only partially erupting or simply staying under the gum line (which is called impacted). Teeth that partially erupt are difficult to clean, which can result in cavities and gum disease. The teeth that are impacted can also cause problems such as damage to the adjacent teeth or the development of cysts and tumors in the jaw.
How Wisdom Teeth Are Removed
Your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb your mouth and may also use sedation to suppress consciousness. After making an incision in the gums and removing some bone tissue, your dentist will split the wisdom teeth into section to ease their removal. Afterwards, the area is cleaned and then stitched up.
What Complications Can Wisdom Teeth Removal Cause
Your dentist will give you after-care instructions to help you heal after wisdom teeth removal. But even if you follow these steps, complications can still arise such as nerve damage, dry socket, or infection. These problems are rare, but if you develop symptoms like fever, excess bleeding, severe pain, oozing, numbness, excess swelling, or trouble swallowing or breathing, then contact your dentist immediately.