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What Are Wisdom Teeth? Your Guide to Understanding and Caring for Them
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that typically emerge between the ages of 18 and 24. Some people may never have them, while others may experience only partial eruption of these teeth. When wisdom teeth don’t erupt fully, they are referred to as impacted wisdom teeth, which can lead to pain, displacement, or damage to surrounding teeth.
While wisdom teeth include both upper and lower molars, most complications are associated with the lower ones. Upper wisdom teeth tend to cause fewer issues, are often easier to remove, and generally lead to less postoperative discomfort.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth may need surgical extraction:
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Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infections in the surrounding tissue.
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Damage to Nearby Teeth: As they attempt to erupt, they may harm adjacent teeth.
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Dental Malpositions: Misaligned wisdom teeth can cause crowding and misalignment of your bite.
To avoid these complications, it’s essential to consult with your dentist for a proper evaluation regarding wisdom teeth extraction.
Is Extracting Wisdom Teeth Painful?
The level of discomfort post-extraction varies based on how impacted the wisdom teeth are. While there can be some complications, following your dentist's postoperative care instructions can help ensure a smooth recovery. At Brisbane Dental, we provide our patients with detailed guidance to minimize any potential issues after extractions.
Post-Operative Instructions for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
To aid in recovery, here are some essential postoperative care tips:
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Bite on a Sterile Gauze: Place a gauze on the extraction site and bite down for 30-60 minutes.
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Use Ice Packs: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your cheek for 20 minutes, 3-4 times a day during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling
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Avoid Spitting and Rinsing: For the first 24 hours, don’t spit or rinse your mouth, as this may dislodge the blood clot and cause bleeding.
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Eat Soft Foods: Once the anesthesia wears off, stick to soft foods at room temperature or cold while avoiding hot items.
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Keep Your Head Elevated: For the first 24 hours, sleep with your head elevated to prevent swelling.
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Rinse Gently After 24 Hours: After the first day, rinse with warm salt water or a prescribed mouthwash to promote healing.
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