Wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to emerge, appearing long after the rest of the permanent dentition. They typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 22, once the jaws have reached their full size. Because they do not always develop or position themselves properly, it is often necessary to remove these potentially problematic teeth through a carefully planned surgical procedure.

What Is the Issue with Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the rearmost molars in the mouth. Because of their large size, they do not always erupt properly or fit into their normal position due to a lack of space in the jaw. When a tooth does not emerge from the bone, or only partially emerges, it is referred to as an impacted tooth (partially or fully impacted). For the same reasons—limited space and their large size—wisdom teeth may also erupt completely but at an abnormal angle or in an improper position.

The often irregular eruption of wisdom teeth, combined with their location at the back of the mouth where they are difficult to clean properly, can lead to a variety of oral health problems:

• Difficulty chewing due to pain or discomfort;
• Periodontal problems caused by plaque and tartar buildup;
• Cavities that are difficult to treat and may worsen, causing pain;
• Infections that can spread to neighboring teeth and tissues;
• The development of lesions, cysts, and tumors (both benign and malignant);
• Damage to adjacent teeth caused by abnormal pressure on their roots.

Wisdom Teeth: The Importance of an Evaluation

Wisdom teeth may be partially impacted, fully impacted, or fully erupted and still cause problems. However, their presence does not always result in complications. Based on your dentist's evaluation, a decision will be made as to whether extraction is necessary. This decision is made through a visual examination and dental X-rays. This evaluation can begin as early as adolescence.

Preventive wisdom tooth extraction (for impacted or poorly positioned teeth) is often performed between the ages of 16 and 22, even if the teeth have not yet erupted. If it is determined that one or more wisdom teeth will not have enough room to erupt properly, it is generally preferable to remove them before they reach their final position in the jaw. The procedure, performed under local anesthesia, is also easier and associated with fewer complications at this age because the bones are still more flexible.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction: A Procedure That Requires Preparation

Performed under local anesthesia, wisdom tooth extraction is generally a safe procedure with few major risks or complications. However, it is normal to experience some postoperative effects, since the gum tissue often needs to be opened to access the tooth being removed, and the jawbone may also be involved.

As a result, it is normal to experience some bleeding, pain, and swelling in the mouth or jaw during the hours following surgery. To minimize these effects and reduce the risk of complications, your dentist may recommend the following:

• Apply pressure to the surgical site with sterile gauze to stop bleeding. Bleeding usually subsides within a few minutes, although saliva may remain blood-tinged for some time;
• Apply ice packs to the jaw near the extraction site (15 minutes per hour during the first 24 hours) to reduce swelling;
• Adjust your diet according to your dentist’s recommendations;
• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication to manage discomfort;
• Contact your dental professional if complications occur, such as symptoms (pain, bleeding, etc.) that persist or worsen.

Questions or Concerns?

If your Montreal dentist recommends wisdom tooth extraction and you feel anxious about the procedure, do not hesitate to contact our team. We will be happy to answer your questions, explain the procedure in detail, and provide postoperative care instructions to help reduce risks and promote a smooth recovery.