Most people are scared of tooth extraction procedure esp. wisdom teeth! There are so many questions about wisdom teeth removal in patients mind. In this article you can find the answer to all these questions. Here we go!
If you need to learn more about wisdom teeth, you can read the following post too.
Why wisdom teeth need to be removed?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be removed, including:
Impacted Teeth
When there is not enough room in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to grow in properly, they may become impacted, meaning that they are unable to emerge fully or at all. Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding
Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding in the mouth, which can lead to misalignment of the other teeth.
When wisdom teeth do not emerge properly, they can push against the surrounding teeth and cause overcrowding. This can lead to a variety of dental issues, including crooked or misaligned teeth, bite problems, and difficulty cleaning teeth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Decay and gum disease
Wisdom teeth can cause decay. Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, which can make them difficult to clean properly, especially if they are impacted or misaligned. If the teeth are not cleaned thoroughly, bacteria can build up and lead to tooth decay.
In addition, if the wisdom teeth cause overcrowding, it can make it difficult to properly clean all the teeth, including the wisdom teeth themselves. This can create areas of the mouth that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss, which can lead to decay.
Furthermore, impacted wisdom teeth can create pockets between the teeth and gums that are difficult to clean, allowing bacteria to thrive and cause decay. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can also be prone to decay as they can create a flap of gum tissue that can trap food and bacteria, leading to decay.
Cysts around the impacted tooth
In some cases, a cyst may develop around the impacted tooth, which can be asymptomatic or can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
If left untreated, they can grow and damage surrounding teeth, bone, and soft tissues. In some cases, a cyst may even lead to the development of a tumor.
Why experts now say not to remove your wisdom teeth?
There has been a shift in the dental community in recent years regarding wisdom teeth removal. While some experts still recommend removing wisdom teeth as a preventative measure, others now argue that it may not be necessary for everyone.
Here are some reasons why experts may advise against wisdom teeth removal:
- No symptoms: If your wisdom teeth are not causing any problems, there may be no reason to remove them. Routine removal of wisdom teeth has been common in the past as a preventive measure, but studies have shown that up to 60% of wisdom teeth extractions are unnecessary. (The Prophylactic Extraction of Third Molars: A Public Health Hazard)
- Complications: Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure that carries some risks, such as pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth or nerves. In some cases, complications can be severe or long-lasting.
- Age: Removing wisdom teeth at a younger age, when the roots are not fully developed, can be easier and less risky. However, some experts argue that there is no need to remove wisdom teeth in older patients, as long as there are no issues.
- Cost: Wisdom teeth removal can be expensive, especially if it’s not covered by insurance. If there is no medical reason to remove the teeth, it may not be worth the cost.
How are wisdom teeth removed?
The procedure for wisdom teeth removal will vary depending on the individual patient and their specific needs. In most cases, the procedure is done on an outpatient basis, which means that the patient can go home the same day.
Before the procedure, the patient will receive anesthesia or sedation to help them feel more comfortable. The surgeon will then make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and remove it. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal.
After the procedure, the patient will be given instructions on how to care for their mouth as it heals. This may include avoiding hard or chewy foods, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and taking pain medication as needed.
Wisdom teeth removal cost in different parts of the world
The cost of wisdom teeth removal can vary depending on the country, region, and individual circumstances. Here are some approximate average costs for wisdom teeth removal in Europe, Canada, and the US:
United States
The cost of wisdom teeth removal in the US can also vary depending on the state and the complexity of the extraction. On average, the cost can range from $75 to $4,000. However, the majority of people can expect to pay around $300 to $800 per tooth.
Europe
The cost of wisdom teeth removal in Europe can vary greatly depending on the country and region. In general, the cost can range from around €200 to €800, with some countries being more expensive than others.
Canada
The cost of wisdom teeth removal in Canada can vary depending on the province and the complexity of the extraction. On average, the cost can range from $500 to $1,500.
Turkey
On average, the cost of wisdom teeth removal in Turkey can range from $30 to $100. However, it’s important to note that the actual cost may vary depending on the individual case and location. Some dental clinics in popular tourist areas may charge higher prices compared to clinics in less touristy areas.
If you like to get dental services in Turkey, Dentakay Dental Clinic is the best option for you! We have two branches; one in Istanbul (north) and the other one in Antalya (south).
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These may include:
- Bleeding: It is normal to experience some bleeding after the procedure, but excessive bleeding can be a sign of a problem.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection after any surgical procedure, and If the patient does not follow proper oral hygiene instructions, it increases the risk of infection after wisdom teeth extraction!
- Nerve Damage: The wisdom teeth are located near nerves that control feeling in the lower lip, tongue, and chin. In rare cases, the removal of these teeth can cause nerve damage, which can result in numbness or tingling in these areas.
- Dry Socket: This is a painful condition that can occur when the blood clot that forms after the tooth is removed becomes dislodged or dissolves before the socket has healed.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that can help prevent pain, infection, and other complications associated with the growth of these teeth. You can be minimize the risks and complications associated with the procedure, by following proper oral hygiene instructions and working closely with your oral surgeon or dentist.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to your wisdom teeth, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon to determine whether removal is the right option for you.
Read also: What is the purpose of wisdom teeth?
