Wisdom teeth extraction

Wisdom teeth extraction

Wisdom teeth are probably the most talked-about tooth! Yet most of the time, they need to be extracted to preserve our oral balance. Your Outremont dental clinic explains why on this page. 
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What makes wisdom teeth so special?

Third molars are called "wisdom teeth" because they are the last permanent teeth to appear. They usually grow in early adulthood, between the ages of 17 and 25. These teeth come in fours but some people may only have 2 or 3. 

It is worth noting that only 5% of people are considered to have the space required for these molars to emerge and position themselves properly within the mouth! In this sense, it is much more common for wisdom teeth to grow in partially (semi-included teeth), or even not at all, and remain "embedded" in the bone, which can lead complications.

Qu’est-ce qui rend les dents de sagesse si spécifiques ?

Do I need to have my wisdom teeth extracted?

Complications caused by impacted or semi-impacted wisdom teeth may or may not present symptoms. The most common forms of complication are as follows: 
  • Greater difficulty in cleaning these teeth, as they grow in at the very back of the mouth. This increases the risk of cavities and gum problems. 
  • A risk of infection of the tissues surrounding wisdom teeth (pericoronitis). 
  • Root decays, which is more difficult to treat and can spread. 
  • Damage to adjacent teeth. Impacted teeth can exert pressure on other tooth roots.
  • The formation of cysts or tumors, which can result from repeated infection of wisdom teeth. .

However, it's not uncommon for wisdom teeth to cause a problem that remains asymptomatic for a long time. For example, by pushing against the 2nd molar, a wisdom tooth can damage the latter. It can therefore be beneficial to have wisdom teeth removed as a preventive measure.

The best way to care for your wisdom teeth is regular follow-up! During your routine examination at Dentistes Outremont, our professionals will be able to determine whether the positioning of your wisdom teeth is likely to pose a problem, or whether a complication has already arisen. You can then discuss the possibility of having them extracted. 

Dois-je faire extraire mes dents de sagesse ?

How does the surgery work?

If you decide to have your wisdom teeth removed, your dentist will take the following steps.
1.
Preparation
your dentist will take a thorough dental and medical history and use accurate X-rays to determine the best way to proceed. This involves analyzing the relationship between the impacted teeth and those around them, the overall structure of the jaw and so on.
2.
Anesthesia
this is generally local, and may or may not be accompanied by sedation, i.e. medication to help you relax. 
3.
The surgery
generally, lasts from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the degree of complication, and is painless thanks to the anesthetic.
4.
Post-operative advice
your dental surgeon will advise you on how to care for your mouth following extraction and will arrange a follow-up appointment if necessary. 
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Soins recommandés

What care is recommended after surgery?

Your dentist will explain in detail how to care for your mouth in the days following surgery. You'll find some general recommendations here.
A thorough examination using good X-rays is the best tool for determining whether wisdom teeth should be extracted. Trust the team at Dentistes Outremont for personalized advice and follow-up that's right for you!
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