Decay on Wisdom Teeth: Extraction vs. Filling
The appearance of your first wisdom tooth is considered a dental milestone. Most people have their first wisdom tooth between the ages of 17 and 21.
These are located at the back of your mouth. Usually, people just let them be as it is, these types of teeth help you chew better. But there are instances wherein the tooth must be extracted. When? How? Why? Here are 5 things you need about extracting your wisdom tooth.
1. There are different circumstances when you should consider doing a wisdom teeth extraction.
As you probably know, the location of your wisdom teeth or third molars are difficult to clean. This makes it easy for dental plaque to build up which can lead to tooth decay. This is the common instance for people to undergo wisdom teeth extraction.
There are also other circumstances like the extensive size of the lesion, access to the tooth is limited, and position of the tooth is difficult to floss or brush, among others. There are also other people who just want the tooth to be extracted for personal reasons.
2. Patients like you have the option to extract the tooth or fill it
It is important to know your options. Most dentists would just require you to fill it if the condition of your wisdom tooth is not that severe. Meaning, it does not have significant problems that would affect you yet. However, in the event that your tooth has been compromised, the only option left is to extract.
Another reason for the tooth to be extracted is when it causes persistent problems like gum disease, recurrent decay, and tooth increases. If you cannot keep your wisdom tooth plaque-free, or you cannot give it time and effort to take care of it, it would be ideal to have it extracted too.
Remember, your teeth are as important as your whole body. You need to exert effort in making sure that all of these are checked and properly taken care of.
3. There are actually benefits that you can get if you undergo wisdom teeth extraction.
While most people think that extracting your wisdom teeth is a bad idea, they are wrong. In fact, you can get various benefits from it such as reducing tooth crowding, avoiding impacted teeth pain, and saving money.
Some wisdom teeth grow in an awkward location, pushing your other teeth. This will have a crowding impact on your teeth. If this is not solved immediately, you can end up getting misaligned teeth. Getting your wisdom teeth removed can also prevent you from experiencing impacted teeth pain. Say goodbye to toothaches and stiff jaws once your wisdom tooth has been removed.
If the decayed wisdom tooth causes problems, you would be required to go back to the clinic several times. You will have to undergo several treatments, wiping out your savings. Extracting the tooth early will save you from future tooth-related issues.
4. You need to prepare for the procedure
Just like any dental treatment, you need to prepare for your wisdom teeth extraction too. At Affinity Dental Clinics, we check your teeth first before any procedure to recommend you the best options for your teeth.
On the day of the procedure, the dentist may use three types of anesthesia: local, sedation, and general. The type of anesthesia varies depending on your comfort level and the condition of your wisdom tooth. The surgery will then begin.
5. There is wisdom teeth extraction aftercare
Take note that there are homecare instructions that you need to do after the surgery. Some of these are avoiding the wounded area, applying ice to your cheeks where the surgery has been made, and taking prescribed pain medications.
It is highly recommended that you look after your teeth as you might encounter bleeding, pain, nausea, and swelling. In case you wish to brush your teeth, be sure to do it lightly. You would be required to rinse at least six times per day, particularly after meals.
There are also instances wherein you can get a fever or your lips will be dry and cracked. While some of the symptoms can be considered as normal, it is best to contact your dentist if you feel that your fever is getting worse or you have other worrisome signs.
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