The wisdom tooth is a name given to one of four or third molars found in adult teeth. You should note that these teeth are the most posterior teeth. Although most persons have wisdom teeth, for some people, it may not develop, and they may not even have all the third molars.
How to Know Whether You Have Wisdom Teeth
It is easy to determine whether you have wisdom teeth by simply examining your mouth and finding permanent molars in the dental quadrant. However, if your tooth is impacted under the tissue, the presence of the tooth ought to be verified by the radiologist. In this case, an X-ray helps to assess the angle of eruption and how the tooth is developing. In most cases, these teeth can be visualized when you are between the ages of 15 and 24. You may even feel the effects of these teeth can be felt even before you can visualize it in your mouth.
Do You Have to Extract All Wisdom Teeth?
You should note that it is not a must to extract all wisdom teeth. Ideally, when the wisdom tooth erupts through the tissue without compromising adjacent teeth, your wisdom teeth can be retained in your mouth with minimal concern. That is the case if you can be able to floss, brush, and clean it as recommended. The truth is that the condition of wisdom teeth changes greatly between the ages of 15 and 24. Therefore, there is a need to examine your tooth thoroughly by finding a dental professional to examine and provide an appropriate diagnosis.
Symptoms and Signs of An Infected Wisdom Tooth
One of the conditions that affect wisdom tooth is known as pericoronitis. It happens when there is no sufficient room for the teeth to grow in your lower jaw. Common infection symptoms include red, swollen gum tissue, pain when biting with back teeth, and even pus oozing. Usually, the infection results in swelling of gum tissue, cheek, or other areas around the affected side of the jaw. You should note that swelling can make structures and radiate to ear resulting in intense earache.
How is Removal Done?
After the dentist determines that your wisdom tooth is problematic, there is a need for an oral surgeon to extract it. In this case, local anesthesia is administered to pull out the teeth without much discomfort.
