Wisdom teeth are normally the last teeth to erupt. This usually happens at around the late teens or early twenties. Some people may never get wisdom teeth, but for those that do, most will erupt successfully, with nothing more than a little soreness to show for it. When they do not erupt correctly though, they can create problems.
As wisdom teeth are the last to erupt and all other teeth present, this can mean that there is insufficient space into which they can erupt, causing them to partially erupt, or to come through at an angle. This is usually referred to as an impacted tooth.
Wisdom tooth problems
If you are concerned about a wisdom tooth that is coming through or appears not to be coming through correctly, it is advisable to contact our team at RE:NU for an appointment. Signs that all might not be well may include symptoms such as soreness or pain in the area and should not be ignored. If there is no discomfort or other signs that there may be a problem, there is no need to contact us and we will monitor the tooth during the course of your regular dental check-ups.
If you do wish to have the tooth examined, we can take an x ray to see where your problem originates from. In the case of impacted wisdom teeth, a common problem is that both bacteria and food can become trapped. This can result in problems such as decay and gum disease.
Initially, our dentists will clean this area well, which may rectify the immediate problem, leaving the tooth to erupt normally. Where this does not prove to be successful, it may become necessary to extract the wisdom tooth.
Extracting a wisdom tooth
The extent of the problem with your wisdom tooth will determine whether this procedure will be carried out at a dental practice, or in hospital. A strong local anaesthetic will be given to minimise any potential discomfort, although you can expect to feel some pressure as with any routine extraction. Depending on the position of the tooth, it may be necessary to make a small incision in the gums in order to gain access to the problem tooth.
Regardless of how your wisdom tooth is removed, it is likely that you will experience some soreness afterwards, and pain relief medication may be needed as appropriate. It is also important for you to follow any instructions you may be given about how to keep the area clean in order to prevent infection.
If you are unfortunate enough to experience problems when your wisdom teeth erupt, please do not feel that it is something that you need to endure. If you are in any doubt at all, please allow us to examine it and determine the best way to manage the situation.
If you would like to book an appointment please don’t hesitate to contact our team at RE:NU
Please call our practice today on +44 (0)2081674185 OR email hello@renudentalmedispa.com to arrange an appointment.