Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of your mouth, usually in your late teens or early twenties. While these teeth were essential for our ancestors, who had larger jaws and relied on tough, coarse diets, they are now considered a vestigial structure that often causes problems. In this blog, we will discuss what wisdom teeth are and why they can be problematic.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. In some cases, people may have fewer or more than four. These teeth usually emerge when a person is between the ages of 17 and 25, although they can emerge earlier or later. In most cases, wisdom teeth removal Sydney is recommended to prevent dental complications caused by impacted wisdom teeth.
Why are wisdom teeth problematic?
Wisdom teeth can be problematic for several reasons:
Lack of Space
In many cases, there is simply not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to emerge properly. When this happens, the teeth may become impacted, meaning they are unable to emerge from the gums. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Hence, wisdom teeth removal Sydney is the viable solution to avoid these dental complications.
Crowding
Wisdom teeth can also cause crowding in the mouth, pushing other teeth out of alignment. This can lead to bite problems and even the need for orthodontic treatment.
Decay
Because wisdom teeth are located in the back of the mouth, they can be difficult to clean properly. This can lead to decay and gum disease.
Infection
When a wisdom tooth becomes impacted, it can create a pocket of space where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection.
Cysts and Tumours
In rare cases, a wisdom tooth can develop a cyst or tumour, which can damage the surrounding bone and teeth.
What Is The Solution For Problematic Wisdom Teeth?
If your dentist or oral surgeon determines that your wisdom teeth are causing problems, they may recommend extraction. Extraction is a common procedure that involves removing the wisdom teeth from the gums and jawbone. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may receive local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia. Remember, the type of sedation you choose can affect the wisdom teeth removal price Sydney along with other cost.
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of your mouth. While they were once essential for our ancestors, they are now considered a vestigial structure that often causes problems. Wisdom teeth can become impacted, causing crowding, decay, infection, and even cysts or tumours. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, be sure to consult with your dentist to determine if your wisdom teeth are the cause and understand the elements involved in wisdom teeth removal cost Sydney.