Wisdom teeth, one of the most common oral and dental problems, begin to erupt between the ages of 18 and 25. Because many people lack sufficient space in their jaw structure, these teeth can cause various oral and dental problems. While some people experience no symptoms at all when wisdom teeth erupt, many others suffer from serious complaints such as pain, infection, and jaw problems.
What is a wisdom tooth?
Wisdom teeth are known as the third molars located at the very back of the mouth. These teeth usually begin to erupt after puberty, but nowadays many people don't find enough space for them in their jaw structure. As a result, the teeth may remain impacted, erupt at the wrong angle, or put pressure on surrounding tissues, causing discomfort.
What are the symptoms seen when wisdom teeth erupt?
-Pain and pressure sensation in the back of the jaw.
-Swelling and tenderness in the gums
-Discomfort when swallowing
-Difficulty opening the mouth
- Ear and headache
-Bad breath
-Redness in the gums
What are the complications caused by wisdom teeth?
-Impacted Wisdom Tooth: One of the most common problems is an impacted wisdom tooth. The tooth may remain completely or partially embedded within the jawbone, causing severe pain. It can also lead to pressure on neighboring teeth, misalignment of teeth, and damage to the jawbone.
- Gum Infection: If a wisdom tooth doesn't fully erupt, bacteria can build up under the gums. This can lead to an infection called "pericoronitis." Gum infections manifest with symptoms such as pain, swelling, bad breath, and fever.
-Cavity in Adjacent Teeth: Because wisdom teeth are located in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, regular cleaning can be difficult. This can increase bacterial growth, leading to cavities in both the wisdom tooth and adjacent teeth.
-Jaw Pain and Chewing Problems: Wisdom teeth that erupt in the wrong position can put pressure on the jawbone. This pressure can result in symptoms such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, headaches, and discomfort in jaw movement.
When is wisdom tooth extraction necessary?
-If there is constant pain
-If recurrent infections occur
-If an impacted tooth is damaging the surrounding teeth
-If there is decay or cysts
What precautions should be taken after wisdom tooth extraction?
After wisdom tooth extraction, hot foods should be avoided for the first 24 hours. Smoking and alcohol should be avoided. Hard foods should not be consumed. Oral hygiene should be carefully maintained. Medications prescribed by the doctor should be taken regularly.
