Toothache is a common and often unbearable problem that people try to avoid at all costs. One of the most troublesome causes of toothache is a decayed wisdom tooth. This unnecessary tooth in the mouth can lead to future dental cavities, bad breath, and misaligned teeth. The wisdom tooth is difficult to clean while brushing, making it more prone to cavities and putting pressure on the surrounding gum and teeth. As a result, many dentists recommend wisdom tooth extraction to prevent further damage or decay to the teeth and gums. According to a dental professional providing wisdom teeth removal in Toronto, wisdom teeth can severely impact oral health, and it is important to remove them as soon as possible to prevent damage to surrounding teeth. There are several other reasons wisdom tooth extraction may be necessary, which we will discuss in more detail in the following post.
Top Reasons to Remove Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are so named because they typically emerge after all other teeth have fully erupted. However, many people opt to have them removed for various reasons, including the following:
– Impacted teeth: When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge fully, they can become trapped in the jawbone and cause pain and discomfort. If they are not removed promptly, they can also cause damage to adjacent teeth.
– Teeth that erupt in the wrong direction: Wisdom teeth that emerge at an angle or in the wrong direction can push against other teeth and cause misalignment or damage.
– Lack of space: A knowledgeable general dentist can assess the size of a patient’s mouth and jawbone to determine if there is enough space for wisdom teeth. If there isn’t, they may recommend removing them before they cause problems.
– Decay or infection: Wisdom teeth are often difficult to clean properly, making them more susceptible to decay or infection. Removal may be necessary to prevent further damage to surrounding teeth and gums if they are decayed or infected.
Take Care Tips after Wisdom Teeth Removal
Here are some tips on how to care for your mouth after wisdom tooth extraction:
1. Bite on gauze: The dentist or oral surgeon will place sterilized gauze over the extraction site to help reduce bleeding. Bite gently on the gauze for 30-45 minutes and replace it with a fresh one if the bleeding continues.
2. Apply ice pack: Place an ice pack on your cheek for 10-20 minutes, taking breaks in between to reduce swelling and irritation.
3. Take painkillers: Your oral surgeon may prescribe pain medication to alleviate discomfort. Make sure to follow the instructions and take the prescribed dosage as directed.
4. Rest and avoid strenuous activities: It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours following surgery to promote healing. Rest is vital in the recovery process.
5. Follow post-operative guidelines: Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific instructions after wisdom tooth extraction. It is essential to follow these guidelines carefully to ensure a speedy and successful recovery.
6. Avoid tobacco products: It is recommended to avoid smoking or using any tobacco-related products for at least 48 hours after surgery. This negative habit can delay healing and increase the risk of complications, so avoiding it altogether during recovery is best.
Following these care instructions can help ensure a smoother recovery and eliminate the risk of complications.
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