Wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset if they grow vertically and are aligned properly. However, these teeth have been know to grow diagonally and horizontally, thus causing problems for their owners. This uneven growing can cause a myriad of problems including crowding, damage to the adjacent second molars as well as the jawbone. Additionally, wisdom teeth sometimes do not fully erupt through the gum, and are termed as impacted.
Definition of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
A tooth is said to become impacted when there is a lack of space in the dental arch and its growth is affected, by gum, bone or another tooth. There are different kinds of impaction. Mesioangular impaction occurs when the tooth grows forward towards the front of the mouth. Vertical impaction is when the formed wisdom tooth does not fully erupt through the gum. Horizontal impaction, which is not as common as the other two forms of impaction, occurs when the tooth is angled sideways, growing into the roots of the second molar.
Removal of Impacted Wisdom TeethImpacted wisdom teeth are usually removed because of the problems they are causing or because of the problems that may arise if they remain in the mouth. In many cases, damage caused by wisdom teeth is not visible on the surface. Dentists and oral surgeons usually take full X-rays of the mouth to see what is going on underneath the gum and to determine what type of extraction is required.
During the procedure to remove the tooth, the dentist numbs the area surrounding the problem tooth with a local anesthetic. Depending on the severity of the extraction, sedatives might be needed. Some removals are as simple as a normal extraction whilst others require gum incisions, and drilling of the tooth to break it up, so that it can be removed in pieces.
The Recovery Process After a Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The speed of recovery after a wisdom tooth extraction depends on the type of extraction and strict adherence to a few general rules. Bleeding, facial swelling and pain will be present over the first 24 hours, but there are some things that can be done to care for the mouth after an extraction. Agape Dental Services, located in Barbados, lists the following guidelines that should be adhered to following extractions:
- Do not rinse the mouth out for at least one day after the extraction.
- Do not use aerated drinks (sodas,soft drinks, fizzy drinks etc) for one and a half days.
- Stay away from all alcoholic beverages for at least one week or as long as medication is being taken.
- Do not use straws for at least three days.
- Do not spit for one day or use any hot beverages.
- Try to stick to a liquid diet until the numbness of the mouth has worn off. Soft foods should be used for a few days.
- Prescribed antibiotics should be taken as per the doctor's orders.
- Teeth should be brushed normally after meals; however, the teeth right next to the extracted wisdom teeth should be avoided for at least one day. Mouth rinses should be avoided.
- If extensive bleeding is experienced, moisten a regular tea bag and hold it over the socket by closing the jaws firmly for at least half an hour.
How to Use A Salt Water Rinse
After one day has passed, the mouth can be rinsed with salt water. Fill a glass with warm to hot water and dissolve a level teaspoon of common salt in it. Allow the water to cool until it can be used without being scalded. Take a mouthful, hold it over the socket and keep it there. Do not gargle. When it is no longer hot, repeat until all of the salt water is used. This should be done at least three times a day for one week.
Key Wisdom Tooth Extraction Information
Before trying any of the processes listed above, a dentist or medical practioner should be consulted. If bleeding, facial swelling or pain persists more than one day after the extraction, the dentist or doctor should be contacted. Wisdom teeth extractions can be problematic and extreme care should be taken in the first forty-eight hours after the extraction.
References
Agape Dental Services, Barbados
American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons; Wisdom Teeth (Accessed February 2010)
WebMd; Dental Health and Wisdom Teeth (Accessed Februay 2010)
Dannielle Brathwaite - Dannielle Brathwaite is a budding creative writer. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the West Indies. Ms. ...
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