Impacted wisdom tooth

September 11, 2008 | Posted by admin

A wisdom tooth is impacted when it is obstructed from erupting fully into the mouth, by the tooth in front of it or the surrounding bone or gums.

Problems caused by impacted wisdom teeth

Improperly erupted wisdom teeth are bleeding grounds for bacteria and may cause tooth decay, sometimes even affecting the neighboring teeth. Infection of the overlying gums can take place as well resulting in pain and swelling.

More serious problems such as the formation of cysts or tumors around an impacted tooth can occur, leading to destruction of the surrounding jawbone and neighboring teeth. These conditions may require complex and extensive treatment. As problems can develop silently without your knowledge, a check – up with your dentist is thus advisable.

Check – up and Consultation

Your initial visit to the dentist would include an examination of your mouth and x – rays to determine the position of the wisdom teeth, their condition and the status of the adjacent teeth and bone.

To prevent problems associated with impacted wisdom teeth, it is advisable to remove them early. The best time to remove them would be during the teenage years, before the roots of the teeth are fully formed and firmly embedded in the jawbone. Healing is also better during this period, with less risk of complications.

Wisdom Tooth Surgery

This is a minor surgical procedure which can usually be performed with little discomfort. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia. Your surgeon will advise you on the type most appropriate for your needs. The surgery involves uncovering the tooth and bone. The tooth may need to be sectioned in order to remove it. The gums are then stitched back.

After the Surgery

After surgery, some minor bleeding from the wound can be expected, which can be controlled by biting on a piece of gauze over the operation area for about half an hour. Facial swelling and discoloration of the overlying skin will also develop, increasing for the first 72 hours and subsiding thereafter. You may not be able to open your mouth as wide as usual for a few days.

Painkillers, antibiotics and an antiseptic mouthwash are usually prescribed after surgery. You will be advised to maintain good oral hygiene and also to keep to a soft diet for a few days following surgery.

Categories: Oral Surgery | Tags: antibiotic, antiseptic, impacted, obstructed, painkiller, surgery, wisdom tooth | No Comments »