Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, have long been a subject of confusion and misinformation. Many people have questions and concerns about their wisdom teeth, from whether they should be removed to how they impact dental health. In this blog, we will address common myths surrounding wisdom teeth and provide accurate, evidence-based information to help you make informed decisions about your dental health.
#1 What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that typically emerge in a person’s late teens or early twenties. They are called “wisdom teeth” because they appear at a later age when a person is presumed to be wiser. Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth, with two on the top and two on the bottom. While some people may never develop wisdom teeth, others may have one, two, three, or all four emerge.
Myth: Everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed.
Fact: Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Whether or not you need to have your wisdom teeth extracted depends on several factors, such as the position of the teeth, their impact on neighboring teeth, and any associated pain or discomfort. Some people may have enough space in their mouth to accommodate wisdom teeth without any issues, while others may require extraction to prevent complications.
#2 When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Myth: Wisdom teeth should always be removed as a preventive measure.
Fact: Wisdom teeth should be removed if they cause problems or have a high risk of causing future issues. Some reasons for Wisdom teeth removal in Montreal include:
- Impacted wisdom teeth: When there is not enough space for the wisdom teeth to emerge, they may become impacted or trapped beneath the gum line. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth and bone.
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth may cause crowding and shifting of other teeth, leading to misalignment and bite problems.
- Gum disease and tooth decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
A dental professional at Alpha Dental Clinic will evaluate your wisdom teeth and recommend extraction if necessary, based on your unique situation and potential risks.
#3 Wisdom teeth and teeth straightening
Myth: Wisdom teeth cause teeth to become crooked and require braces.
Fact: While wisdom teeth can contribute to crowding in some cases, they are not the sole cause of crooked teeth. Genetics, oral habits, and other factors also play a role in determining the alignment of your teeth. If you are concerned about the impact of your wisdom teeth on your dental alignment, consult with your dentist or orthodontist. They can assess your situation and determine whether wisdom teeth extraction or orthodontic treatment is necessary.
#4 What are the risks of having wisdom teeth removed?
Myth: Wisdom teeth removal is a dangerous and risky procedure.
Fact: Wisdom teeth removal is a common and generally safe procedure when performed by a qualified Dentist in Montreal. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, such as:
- Pain, swelling, and bruising
- Dry socket (a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot protecting the extraction site is dislodged)
- Infection
- Nerve damage (rare)
Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you and take necessary precautions to minimize potential complications. Most people recover from wisdom teeth removal without any significant issues.
#5 What should I do if my wisdom teeth regrow?
Myth: Wisdom teeth can regrow after extraction.
Fact: Once a wisdom tooth has been fully extracted, it cannot regrow. However, some people may have what’s known as a supernumerary tooth, which is an extra tooth that can develop behind the wisdom tooth. If you experience pain or swelling in the area where a wisdom tooth was previously extracted, consult with your dentist, as it could be the emergence of a supernumerary tooth or another dental issue.
#6 The process of wisdom teeth removal
Myth: Wisdom teeth removal is an extremely painful procedure.
Fact: While wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure that may cause some discomfort, advances in dental anesthesia and pain management have made the process much more tolerable. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon may use local anesthesia, conscious sedation, or general anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. After the surgery, your dentist will provide you with pain-relief medication and instructions for managing any post-operative discomfort.
#7 Recovery from wisdom teeth removal
Myth: Recovery from wisdom teeth removal takes a long time and is very painful.
Fact: Recovery time and discomfort vary from person to person, but most people can expect to return to their normal activities within a few days to a week. Pain and swelling are most noticeable during the first 24-48 hours after the procedure and typically subside gradually. Your dentist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to promote healing and minimize discomfort, such as:
- Applying ice to the outside of your face to reduce swelling
- Taking prescribed pain medication as directed
- Avoiding smoking and drinking through a straw, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot protecting the extraction site
- Eating soft foods and gradually reintroducing solid foods as tolerated
- Gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to keep the extraction site clean
By following these guidelines, most people experience a smooth and relatively comfortable recovery process.
#8 The cost of wisdom teeth removal
Myth: Wisdom teeth removal is prohibitively expensive.
Fact: The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the extraction, the type of anesthesia used, and your geographical location. While it can be a significant investment, many dental insurance plans partially cover the cost of wisdom teeth removal. It is essential to consider the potential long-term costs of not addressing problematic wisdom teeth, such as orthodontic treatment, gum disease treatment, and tooth repair or replacement. Discuss your financial concerns with the staff at Alpha Dental Clinic about options to help make the procedure more affordable.
#9 The importance of regular dental check-ups
Myth: If I have no pain or discomfort, I don’t need to see a dentist for my wisdom teeth.
Fact: Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health and identifying potential issues before they become problematic. Even if you are not experiencing pain or discomfort, your dentist can monitor the development and position of your wisdom teeth through routine exams and dental X-rays. Early detection and intervention can help prevent complications and minimize the need for more invasive treatment later on.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth are a common source of confusion and misinformation, but understanding the facts can help you make informed decisions about your dental health. By debunking common myths and addressing additional concerns, we hope to provide you with the knowledge you need to navigate the complexities of wisdom teeth and maintain optimal oral health.
Remember to consult with your dental professional if you have any concerns or questions about your wisdom teeth. They can assess your unique situation and provide personalized guidance and treatment to ensure the best possible outcome for your dental health.
Located in Montreal and Brossard, Alpha Seaforth Dental Clinics offer a range of services, including dental implants, orthodontics, and regular care and check-ups in multiple languages. With competitive pricing equal to or lower than the Quebec Dental Surgeons Association’s fee guide, the clinics accept most insurance plans, prioritizing affordable dental care. We provide emergency dental care and professional services to address various dental needs, from orthodontics for children to dental implants for adults. The experienced dentists at Alpha Seaforth aim to help patients understand their options and make the right decisions for their dental health in a compassionate, professional setting. Book your Appointment with Alpha Dental Clinic today!
