Third molars, or wisdom teeth, erupt last in the dental development sequence and usually do so between the ages of 17 and 25. Although some people may not have any difficulties with their wisdom teeth, many people have a variety of dental disorders as a result of these latecomers. For Ladera Ranch residents, keeping excellent oral health requires a grasp of the various problems brought on by wisdom teeth and how to handle them. In this article, we will discuss the problems related to wisdom teeth and post-extraction care with the help of Ladera Ranch dental.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
The third and last pair of molars in your mouth are called wisdom teeth. The reason they are called “wisdom teeth” is that they often appear in late adolescence or early twenties, a period that is frequently linked to developing maturity and “wisdom.” The majority of individuals have four wisdom teeth—one in each corner of the mouth—but some may have none at all or very few.
Why Is It That Wisdom Teeth Become Problematic?
Wisdom teeth can be problematic because they are the last to come in and there is usually not room for them in our jaws. Common problems include:
- Wisdom tooth impaction: When a wisdom tooth doesn’t have room to emerge or develop normally It becomes impacted, meaning it grows at an angle with the potential to threaten other teeth or gets stuck below your gumline where pain and infection develop.
- Crowding: If you do not have enough room in your mouth, wisdom teeth may push other teeth and cause them to move out of alignment. In some cases, this can cause the teeth to become crowded and reverse years of orthodontic treatment.
- Infection: A partially erupted wisdom tooth creates a flap of gum tissue that can easily trap food and bacteria. This can ultimately result in an infection known as pericoronitis, which will trigger the area to become tender and swell up — along with it becoming difficult for you to open your mouth wide.
- Cysts and Tumors: It is even possible for an impacted wisdom tooth to become the root of a condition known as cysts, which can in turn hollow out your jawbone or damage other teeth.
Post-Extraction Care
To have a quick recovery from wisdom teeth removal you need to pay attention after your dental surgery. Here are some tips:
- Rest and recovery: Ease up for a few days following the extraction. Refrain from exerting activities that may increase blood pressure and bleeding.
- Ice Packs: Hold an ice pack to your jawline for relief of swelling.
- Soft Foods: For the first few days, it is best to eat soft foods such as yogurts, mashed potatoes, and smoothies so you do not irritate other extracts.
- Oral Hygiene: Lightly gargle with warm salt water, but do not brush directly on the location of extraction in the first 24 hours.
- Follow-Up: Keep all follow-up visits with your dentist to ensure that the recovery is smooth.
Wisdom Teeth in Ladera Ranch: Your Home Town Dental Care
If you have questions about your wisdom teeth and whether they are causing pain, or if it is time to extract them then contact Ladera Ranch professionals. We are staffed by experienced dentists and equipped with current technology for a comfortable dental experience.
After all, wisdom teeth are easier to treat and remove when they are recognized before ever becoming a significant issue. Contact your Ladera Ranch dentist immediately to set up a consultation regarding wisdom teeth, if you hesitate and wait too long it may result in more painful tooth extractions.
