When it comes to jaw-dropping moments in life, dealing with impacted wisdom teeth certainly ranks high. These third molars can cause jaw-dropping pain and discomfort, often requiring removal. Let’s explore the astonishing realities of wisdom teeth, from their unexpected arrival to the unbelievable events surrounding their extraction and recovery.
Third molars or Wisdom Teeth that do not have enough space to come out fully and are buried under the gums or bone are called impacted wisdom teeth. They erupt during late adolescence or early adulthood. For many, these teeth come in without any issues. For others, they can grow at odd angles, erupt partially or not break through the gums at all. These mysterious little troublemakers hide in the corners of our mouths like rebellious teenagers at a family reunion. Nothing wise about these teeth!
Impacted wisdom teeth is most commonly seen in the lower jaw than the upper jaw. Understanding the nature of impacted wisdom teeth is essential for identifying the symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment and preventing further complications. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is specially trained to diagnose and treat impacted wisdom teeth.
In this type of impaction, the wisdom tooth is angled towards the second molar, pressing against it. This type is most commonly seen in Singapore.
Vertical impaction occurs when the wisdom tooth usually attempts to come out but is blocked by neighbouring teeth or bone.
Horizontal impaction happens when the wisdom tooth is positioned horizontally. The tooth may seem like it's lying sideways and sleeping. It is the second most common type of Impaction.
In distal impaction, the wisdom tooth is tilted towards the back of the mouth.
A partially erupted wisdom tooth can be either horizontally, vertically, or distally impacted.
A fully impacted wisdom tooth is completely covered by gum and bone and cannot erupt.
Jaw dropping expressions are common when describing wisdom teeth pain as individuals experience throbbing discomfort, difficulty chewing and even headaches. The pain can be so intense that it often leads to a visit to the dentist or oral surgeon to remove wisdom teeth. If you experience pain and swelling in your jaw or mouth, it could be a sign of an impacted wisdom tooth. Problematic impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
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If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult with a dental professional to check if your wisdom teeth are impacted.
Diagnosing impacted wisdom teeth typically involves a combination of clinical examination, dental imaging (such as X-rays or panoramic radiographs) and evaluation of symptoms.
Treatment options for impacted wisdom teeth depend on the complexity of the case and any associated complications. Sometimes, surgery is necessary to alleviate pain and prevent further problems. If you have a partially impacted wisdom tooth, your dentist may recommend extraction or other treatment options.
The surgical procedure to remove impacted wisdom teeth is typically performed under local anaesthesia or sedation. Post-wisdom tooth removal care involves following a soft diet and specific instructions to prevent complications such as infection or dry socket. This will help your mouth heal properly and ensure a smooth recovery.
If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to serious complications that may require wisdom tooth removal, complications include—
It is crucial to address impacted wisdom teeth promptly to avoid these potential complications.
While wisdom tooth surgery may be necessary in some cases, preventive measures can help reduce the risk of complications.
Dealing with impacted wisdom teeth can be one of life's most jaw-dropping surprises. From the astonishing pain to the incredible relief after removal, every aspect of this experience can leave a lasting impression. Understanding the process and knowing how to manage symptoms can make this daunting experience a bit more manageable. If you're facing issues with your wisdom teeth, don't hesitate to seek professional advice and take the necessary steps to maintain your oral health.
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Quek, S. L., Tay, C. K., Tay, K. H., Toh, S. L., & Lim, K. C. (2003). Pattern of third molar impaction in a Singapore Chinese population: a retrospective radiographic survey. International journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery, 32(5), 548-552.
KalaiSelvan, S., Ganesh, S. K. N., Natesh, P., Moorthy, M. S., Niazi, T. M., & Babu, S. S. (2020). Prevalence and pattern of impacted mandibular third molar: An institution-based retrospective study. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, 12(Suppl 1), S462-S467.