Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that come in at the back of your mouth. They erupt between the ages of 17 and 25 years. There are people who have wisdom teeth and do not cause any problems. But for many, wisdom teeth can result in pain, swelling and other dental complications. That is where wisdom teeth removal in North Toronto is required. But do you always have to undergo surgery? Read on and find out.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the back of the mouth. There are four wisdom teeth—top and bottom, on each side—which most adults have. These teeth were helpful for our ancestors who ate nuts and raw meat, hard foods. But we have a softer diet, and our jaws are smaller. This means that sometimes wisdom teeth simply have no space to grow properly.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed?
Not all people need to have their wisdom teeth pulled out. If your wisdom teeth are coming in straight, if you have enough room for them, and if they do not hurt, then you might not need surgery. The dentist uses X-rays to look at your teeth and see if they are coming in properly.
When Is It the Right Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Sometimes, wisdom teeth do not grow the right way. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection. A dentist may recommend removal in the following cases:
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: If the tooth is stuck under the gums or pressing against another tooth, it can cause pain and infection.
- Crowding: If there is not enough space, wisdom teeth can push other teeth, making them misaligned.
- Tooth Decay: Since wisdom teeth are far back, they are harder to clean. This can lead to cavities and gum infections.
- Pain or Swelling: If you feel pain, swelling, or redness in the gums around your wisdom teeth, it may be a sign of infection.
Knowing when it is right time to removal wisdom teeth is important to prevent future dental problems. If you experience any of these issues, consult your dentist for the best advice.
What Happens During Wisdom Tooth Removal?
If your dentist decides that removal is necessary, they will schedule a simple surgery. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing the Area: The dentist will use local anesthesia to numb your mouth so you don’t feel pain.
- Removing the Tooth: The dentist will gently remove the tooth. Sometimes, they may need to make a small cut in the gum to take out the tooth.
- Closing the Gum: If needed, stitches may be used to close the area. These stitches usually dissolve on their own.
- Recovery: You may experience some swelling and mild pain for a few days, but this will go away with proper care.
How to Take Care of Your Mouth After Surgery
After tooth removal in North Toronto, taking care of your mouth is important to heal faster. Here are some tips:
- Rest: Avoid heavy activities for the first 24 hours.
- Use Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to the cheek helps reduce swelling and pain.
- Eat Soft Foods: Consume soups, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for a few days.
- Avoid Straws and Smoking: Drinking with straw can cause a painful condition called dry socket.
- Brush Gently: Keep your mouth clean, but avoid brushing the surgery area for the first day.
When to Visit Your Dentist?
While most people heal without any problems, you should see your dentist if you notice:
- Severe pain that doesn’t get better with medicine
- Swelling that gets worse after a few days
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Fever or signs of infection
Do You Always Need Surgery?
Not everyone needs wisdom tooth removal, but if your teeth cause pain or other issues, surgery may be the best option. Always consult your dentist to know what’s right for you. Taking care of your teeth early can help prevent problems in the future.
Don’t Ignore Wisdom Teeth Pain—See a Dentist Today!
If you’re dealing with wisdom tooth pain, we know how uncomfortable it can be. At Bayview Dental Centre, our team of dentist near you is here to help with safe and gentle wisdom tooth removal. Ignoring the pain can lead to bigger problems, so it’s important to get it checked early. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way. Call us today to schedule your appointment and take care of your smile!