Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the back of the jaw. They usually appear in the late teens or early twenties. While some people can live with their wisdom teeth without any problems, many need to have these teeth removed. The decision as to whether removal is necessary depends on several factors, including the health and alignment of the wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth often cause problems because they often do not have enough space to erupt. In such cases, they can break partially through the gums or become crooked in the jaw. This can lead to various complications. The most common problems include pain, swelling, inflammation and infection. When wisdom teeth grow crooked, they can also put pressure on the neighboring teeth, which can lead to tooth displacement and misalignment. In addition, there is a risk that wisdom teeth can develop cavities or inflame the surrounding gums, as this area is difficult to clean.

Another problem is the so-called „impacted“ wisdom tooth, where the tooth is trapped under the gum or jawbone and cannot erupt properly. This can cause severe pain and infection and often requires surgical removal. Even if the wisdom tooth erupts completely, it can grow in a position that makes chewing and cleaning difficult, which in turn increases the risk of dental problems.

Wisdom tooth removal is a routine procedure that is usually performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia, but may be performed under general anesthesia or sedation for more complicated cases. The length of the procedure depends on whether the teeth are simple or complicated to remove. After surgery, it is common to experience swelling, pain, and bleeding, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days.

The decision to remove wisdom teeth is often made after a thorough examination by the dentist, which usually includes x-rays. These show how the wisdom teeth are positioned in the jaw and whether they could potentially cause problems. Even if the wisdom teeth are not causing immediate problems, it may be advisable to remove them early before they lead to complications.

Preventive removal is often recommended when wisdom teeth are not yet fully developed, as the procedure is usually easier and healing is faster when the patient is young. Older people often have a higher risk of complications after surgery because bones are harder and wounds take longer to heal. However, removal should not be decided in a hurry. If wisdom teeth are healthy, correctly aligned and not causing problems, there is no need to remove them.

After wisdom teeth removal, it is important to carefully follow the dentist’s post-operative care instructions. This includes avoiding rough foods and maintaining gentle oral hygiene to prevent infection. Painkillers and cold compresses can help reduce swelling and pain. In the first few days after surgery, physical activity should be limited and smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided so as not to interfere with wound healing.

In summary, wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed, but can often cause problems if they do not have enough space to erupt. The decision as to whether removal is necessary depends on the individual situation. Regular dental visits and x-rays are key to identifying potential problems early. Taking action in time can prevent serious complications and ensure that oral health is not compromised.