Even when not inflamed, wisdom teeth often trap fibrous foods. Mild cases cause bad breath, while severe cases lead to decay at the neck of the second molar or even tooth loss. Impacted wisdom teeth often fail to establish normal occlusion with opposing teeth. Over time, this can cause temporomandibular joint clicking, painful mouth opening, and nighttime teeth grinding.For wisdom teeth that cannot erupt normally, extraction should be performed as soon as possible after controlling acute inflammation.
Unhealthy teeth can significantly impact our daily lives. Many people experience wisdom teeth, which can cause considerable discomfort. Extraction is often necessary, yet many are unaware of what to consider when removing upper wisdom teeth. Today, we provide a brief overview.
Early extraction prevents numerous complications. The optimal age for removal is 16-18 years old, when roots are approximately one-third formed. Extraction is easier at this stage, patients tolerate it better, wounds heal faster, and both alveolar bone regeneration and skin reattachment are superior. This also facilitates recovery from periodontal damage to adjacent teeth.
Generally, the longer the tooth remains impacted, the longer the swelling may persist, especially with impacted teeth. For the first hour after extraction, swallow all blood and saliva. Avoid rinsing to aid blood clotting and wound healing. Upon returning home, apply an ice pack for one hour. If discomfort persists, switch to a warm compress. If fever develops, consider taking the next day off work to rest.
Do not rinse your mouth or brush your teeth on the day of extraction. Avoid touching the extraction site with your tongue or sucking on it repeatedly. Do not undergo tooth extraction during menstruation, especially for wisdom teeth, as this may trigger compensatory bleeding.Following complex wisdom tooth extraction, swelling, pain, difficulty opening the mouth, and painful swallowing are common. The longer the extraction takes, the greater the likelihood of facial swelling. Oral anti-inflammatory medication is typically prescribed, and swelling usually subsides within 3–5 days. If significant bleeding or fever occurs after extraction, seek prompt medical attention.
Generally, upper wisdom teeth require extraction. However, success isn't guaranteed after removal. Adhering to the above precautions and diligent post-extraction care are essential for maintaining dental health and preserving a bright, beautiful smile.