The not-so-wise Wisdom Tooth

It has happened with so many of us, going about our routine & suddenly that discomfort begins! Yes, I am talking about the sting of the 3rd molar i.e. your Wisdom Tooth. So what exactly is this tiny thing that makes us loose our mind?

Wisdom teeth or the third molar teeth erupt or come in the oral cavity after the age of 18 years and so are named as wisdom teeth.

Due to the reduced jaw size in the present times, these teeth cannot erupt in normal position like other teeth. Sometimes, they are in horizontal position while sometimes they may be in slanting position. They can be totally submerged, i.e. known as impacted, in the bone or some parts of them can be erupted in the oral cavity.

They cause problem at some point of time in almost everyone but they may be missing sometimes as well.

The common causes of problem in wisdom teeth:

• They’re impacted. Because they’re so far back in your mouth, wisdom teeth may not come in normally. They can be trapped in your jawbone or gums, which can be painful.
• They come in at the wrong angle. They may press against your other teeth.
• Your mouth isn’t big enough. Your jaw has no room for an extra set of molars.
• You have cavities or gum disease. You may not be able to reach your wisdom teeth with your toothbrush or dental floss.

So, they should be extracted before they cause serious problems such as:

• Problems to the adjacent molar teeth which is very important for chewing food.
• Problems to the Temporo-mandibular Joint. (Opening and closing of mouth)
• Affecting the bite when present in an abnormal position
• Cheek bite due to abnormal position can cause ulcers on the inner lining of the cheek.
• Swollen gums when this tooth is not erupted properly can be very painful and also affect opening of the mouth.

Basic instructions should be followed after procedure to help in healing such as:

• No spitting or rinsing for 24 hours
• Avoid hard and hot food for 24 hours
• Smoking or alcohol consumption
• Take medications on time