Wisdom tooth extraction is an unpopular choice for dentists when it comes to giving dental solutions. However, it becomes necessary when a patient has an impacted third molar. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are permanent teeth that come out last between the age of 17 to 25. An impacted wisdom tooth means that either the molar partially erupted or it never came out and are growing underneath the gums. After tooth removal of the impacted molar, patients need to follow their dentists’ post-care instructions to prevent complications. 

Wisdom tooth becomes impacted due to lack of space in the patient’s mouth for the molar to properly grow. Different scenarios require an impacted wisdom tooth removal. 

• The molar grows toward an angle that hits another molar. 
• It might also develop towards the rear end of the mouth.
• Sometimes the molar grows at an angle that seems to be lying down in the jawbone. 
• In other cases, only a portion of the molar comes out while the rest of the tooth is trapped in the jawbone.  

Why is impacted wisdom tooth extraction necessary?

As described in the different impacted wisdom tooth scenarios, the third molar’s presence only disrupts the remaining teeth. Furthermore, there are several reasons why an impacted wisdom tooth extraction is necessary.

• It causes pain. 
• An impacted molar traps food particles. 
• It might lead to an infection or gum disease. 
• A partially erupted molar is prone to dental decay. 
• It only damages the neighboring tooth. 
• It also hinders proper teeth alignment. 
• There’s a chance that a cyst may develop around the impacted wisdom tooth. 

All these reasons are sufficient enough for you to understand why your dentist needs to remove the impacted wisdom tooth. It helps a lot for you to know what to expect during the procedure and after tooth removal.

Impacted wisdom tooth extraction procedure and post-care tips

1. The dentist takes a digital X-ray to determine the location and position of the wisdom tooth that needs extraction. 
2. He sedates the patient and numbs the surgical site for wisdom tooth extraction. 
3. The oral surgeon makes an opening of the gum tissues so the tooth and bone become visible. 
4. He removes the bone that hinders him to access the roots of the tooth. 
5. He might need to break the tooth into pieces first if it’s difficult to remove the tooth altogether. 
6. The dental surgeon cleans the surgical site from any debris after tooth removal.
7. He closes up the wound with stitches so the gums heal faster. 
8. He damps a gauze pad on the extraction site to manage the bleeding and promote blood clot. 
9. The dentist also gives prescriptions such as painkillers and antibiotics to help you recover faster. 
10. Remember to go on a soft diet within three days following the extraction procedure. 

If you notice any of the signs associated with an impacted third molar, don’t hesitate to inform your dentist about it. Who knows, you might need a wisdom tooth extraction in London, Ontario to free yourself from dental pain.