Top 10 Wisdom Teeth Questions Answered
Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure. Most people will need to have theirs removed due to lack of space in their mouth. If your dentist, orthodontist, oral surgeon, or other dental specialist has recommended having your wisdom teeth removed, you probably have a few questions. Here are the top 10 most common wisdom teeth questions.
- What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that develop at the back of your jaw behind your 12 year molars. They typically develop and start to emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Due to the fact that they appear in early adulthood, they got the name wisdom teeth.
- Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed?
As humans have evolved we no longer need our wisdom teeth to chew raw meat and other tough foods that our ancient ancestors consumed. Our jaws are becoming smaller and narrower, resulting in a lack of space for the wisdom teeth. They often come in crooked or fail to come in at all, and removal is typically the best option.
- What is the Best Age to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
It is best to have your wisdom teeth removed when they are beginning to form but aren’t yet fully developed. As the wisdom teeth develop the roots become larger and more set in the jaw, making them harder to remove. If they are removed before the roots have fully developed, the procedure is less complex. Having your wisdom teeth removed around the age of 17-19 is typically better than waiting until you are in your 20s.
- What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
When the wisdom teeth become stuck under the gums, sometimes in the jaw bone, they are considered to be impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems from damage to the other teeth and jaw bone to infection. Removal is necessary in this case.
- How Long Does it Take to Recover From Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It can take a few days to recover after wisdom teeth extraction. You may need to rest at home for 24-48 hours and eat soft foods for a week or so. You should experience full healing in 2-3 weeks.
- What Type of Anesthesia is Required for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The type of anesthesia used for wisdom teeth removal depends on the complexity of the procedure as well as the personal preference of the patient. Fully erupted wisdom teeth may be extracted with just local anesthesia. For impacted wisdom teeth it may be best to have IV sedation.
- How Long Does the Removal Procedure Take?
The wisdom teeth removal procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the complexity of the situation. Again, impacted wisdom teeth take longer to remove than fully erupted wisdom teeth.
- Should I Have All 4 Wisdom Teeth Removed?
It is typically in your best interest to have all 4 of your wisdom teeth removed at once. If you don’t have room for some of them, you most likely don’t have room for any of them. Getting them all done at once is more convenient and cost effective.
- What is a Dry Socket?
A dry socket can occur after a tooth extraction if the blood clot comes loose from the socket. This may happen if you drink from a straw too soon after your procedure. Drinking carbonated beverages can also dislodge the clot and cause dry socket.
- What Should I Eat or Not Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It is best to stick to a soft diet for the first few days following your procedure. Eat things like yogurt, pudding, jello, mashed potatoes, non-chunky soup, and applesauce. Avoid hard, crunchy, and spicy foods. Allow hot foods and beverages to cool to lukewarm or room temperature before consuming.
Learn More About Wisdom Teeth From Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park
Is it time to have your wisdom teeth removed? Call Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park at 904-269-5195 or contact us today to schedule an appointment. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have so you feel comfortable and prepared for your procedure.