Wisdom teeth removal is surrounded by unnecessary anxiety and misinformation. Not everyone needs to undergo this common dental procedure, and for many, the process is smoother and less painful than expected. If you think you may need your wisdom teeth removed, there’s no need to worry. We’ll unpack the most common myths, offering you clear, expert insights that could alter your view on wisdom teeth surgery.
Myth 1: Everyone Needs Their Wisdom Teeth Removed
One widespread belief is that wisdom teeth removal is almost a rite of passage that everyone must endure. However, the truth is more nuanced, depending on your individual anatomy and oral health. In fact, not everyone has wisdom teeth. The decision to remove wisdom teeth isn’t something everyone must do; rather, it varies greatly depending on mouth size, tooth alignment, and overall dental health.
Some people have large enough jaws to accommodate extra third molars without issue. For these individuals, the four wisdom teeth can emerge without disrupting the alignment of other teeth or causing pain and infection. In contrast, those with smaller jaws may experience overcrowding or misalignment if wisdom teeth are allowed to come in, necessitating their removal.
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed if they are healthy, fully erupted, and properly aligned. If they don’t compromise the surrounding teeth or contribute to dental complications, they can remain a functional part of your dentition. Assess your teeth individually with your dentist. Many people retain their wisdom teeth throughout their lives without any negative consequences.
Myth 2: Removing Wisdom Teeth is Extremely Painful
The notion that wisdom teeth removal is an excruciating ordeal persists, but advancements in dental surgery have helped ease the pain. Today, discomfort related to this procedure is much more manageable than many anticipate, thanks to modern surgical techniques and anesthesia.
Dental surgeons now use precise and minimally invasive techniques to remove wisdom teeth, significantly reducing tissue trauma and subsequent pain. The type of anesthesia used during the procedure can vary from local anesthesia, which numbs only the mouth area, to general anesthesia, where the patient is completely asleep. These options make sure that patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure itself.
Post-surgery, managing pain is handled proactively. Patients typically receive a combination of pain management solutions, including prescription painkillers and over-the-counter options like ibuprofen. Ice packs and resting are also important in managing swelling and discomfort in the days following the surgery.
Myth 3: Wisdom Teeth Surgery Has a Long Recovery Time
Many people fear wisdom tooth removal due to the thought of a lengthy recovery time. The truth is, you won’t have the swollen cheeks that resemble a chipmunk for long. The recovery timeline is often much shorter than expected, and knowing what influences it can help manage expectations effectively.
Typically, the initial recovery phase after wisdom teeth removal lasts about a week. During this time, patients may experience swelling and discomfort, which generally peaks around the second day and then gradually subsides. Most people feel well enough to return to school or work within a few days, though complete healing of the gums may take a few weeks.
Tips for Speeding Up the Recovery Process:
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Following care guidelines provided by your oral surgeon is important. This includes instructions on how to maintain oral health to prevent infection.
- Rest and Relaxation: Keeping your head elevated and resting helps reduce swelling and speeds up recovery. Avoid strenuous activities for the first few days to prevent any complications.
- Cold Compresses: Applying ice packs to the cheek near the extraction site can help reduce swelling and provide relief from discomfort.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Soft Foods: Drinking plenty of fluids and eating soft foods like yogurt, soups, and smoothies can help maintain nourishment without irritating the surgery site.
- Avoid Smoking and Straws: Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications, such as dry sockets. Similarly, using a straw can dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site and delay healing.
Myth 4: The Later You Remove Wisdom Teeth, the Better
Many people believe that they should wait for problems caused by their wisdom teeth to occur. Though, dental professionals typically recommend removing wisdom teeth at a younger age for several reasons, highlighting the risks of delay and the advantages of timely intervention.
Risks of Delaying Removal
- Increased Complications: As individuals age, the roots of wisdom teeth become more fully formed and entrenched within the jaw, which can complicate their removal. This can lead to a higher risk of nerve damage, more significant bleeding, and longer healing times.
- Potential for Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Waiting until wisdom teeth cause pain or physical symptoms can mean they have already begun to affect other teeth. This can include shifting of the teeth, decay in areas that are hard to clean, and damage to second molars.
- Higher Risk of Infections and Cysts: Older patients are more likely to develop cysts or infections around impacted wisdom teeth. These conditions can cause jaw deterioration and require more extensive treatment.
Benefits of Timely Removal During Younger Age
- Easier Recovery: Younger patients typically experience faster and less complicated recoveries. Their bone tissue is more adaptable, and the wounds from extraction heal quicker.
- Prevention of Orthodontic Problems: Extracting wisdom teeth before they become a problem can prevent them from crowding other teeth and affecting the alignment of the mouth, which is particularly beneficial for those who have had orthodontic treatment.
- Reduced Surgical Risk: The procedure is generally less risky when the wisdom teeth have not fully developed, which means shorter surgery times – approximately less than an hour – and fewer complications.
Myth 5: Facial Changes After Getting Wisdom Teeth Extracted
Wisdom teeth extraction does not cause noticeable changes in your facial structure.
The position of wisdom teeth at the very back of the mouth means that their extraction is unlikely to affect the bones that define your face’s outline. Most changes that occur are due to swelling, which is a temporary condition following the surgery. This swelling can make your face appear fuller or puffier than usual, but it typically subsides within the first-week post-surgery.
Many patients express concerns about permanent facial changes post-extraction. However, these fears are mostly unfounded. Any slight changes in the appearance of the jawline or cheeks are subtle and often temporary. That’s because these teeth do not structurally support the visible aspects of the cheek or jawline in a way that their removal would cause noticeable alteration.
The Realities of Wisdom Teeth Removal
There are many myths about wisdom teeth that can make the decision more stressful than necessary. Understanding the facts can demystify the process and alleviate unwarranted fears. Consult with your dental professional and consider your own circumstances. You can approach wisdom tooth extraction with confidence, knowing you are making the best decision for your dental health.
