Wisdom Teeth Extraction to Prevent Teeth Misalignment

There are numerous reasons why dental professionals recommend wisdom teeth extraction, and one is to prevent teeth misalignment. Wisdom teeth are the third molars located in the lower and upper parts of the jaw, behind the other molars on both sides. The teeth generally appear years after the other permanent teeth have come up. In some people's jaws, the appearance of extra teeth crowds the jaw, and the other teeth have to shift to make room, causing misalignment. Removing the wisdom teeth allows for more room in the jaw.

Consequences of misaligned teeth

Having teeth that are misaligned can be embarrassing because it affects how one's smile looks. Many people choose to correct any misalignments to improve self-esteem. However, there are also functional consequences of misalignment due to wisdom teeth eruption.

When the wisdom teeth cause pressure on surrounding teeth, the bite is affected. Normally, bite force is spread equally between the teeth in the mouth. With misalignments, one or a few teeth take the majority of the force. When misaligned teeth stick out or are more prominent, they absorb greater impact when biting or chewing, which can result in discomfort and even pain. With wisdom teeth extraction, the pressure is removed from the teeth, which allows for a more equally distributed bite force. 

The wisdom teeth removal procedure

If wisdom teeth extraction is recommended to relieve pressure on the other teeth, it is good to know what to expect. This dental surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.

Procedure preparation

Because it is a surgical procedure, patients should plan for someone to drive them to the procedure and take them home. Arrangements should be made for missed work or school days for the surgery and recovery. The dental professional gives the patient instructions regarding fasting and avoiding taking any medication prior to the procedure. The patient is also given instructions regarding when to arrive for the appointment.  

During the procedure

Once the patient is prepared for the wisdom teeth extraction, the dental professional makes an incision in the gum tissue and removes any bone that is blocking the tooth's roots. The tooth is removed, and the site is cleaned of any debris. The surgical site may be stitched up, and then a gauze is placed to control the bleeding.

Recovery after wisdom teeth extraction

Full recovery after the surgery takes about two weeks. In the day or two following the procedure, individuals may have swelling, bruising, and pain. They may have been prescribed pain meds, and an ice pack is also helpful to ease discomfort. Only soft foods should be eaten during the first 24 hours. Patients should also avoid brushing or rinsing the mouth during the first 24 hours. The dental professional can give any additional instructions to follow.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Tucson, AZ

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth extraction can be beneficial if there is overcrowding in the mouth. Removing these teeth relieves pressure on neighboring teeth and helps the remaining teeth settle into their original positions.

Request an appointment or call Simply Smiles Dentistry at 520-368-3351 for an appointment in our Tucson office.

Related Posts

Possible Dental Issues From Wisdom Teeth Cysts

Wisdom teeth tend to disrupt the balance of your oral environment. As these third molars develop, dental issues emerge. One of them is a dentigerous cyst. It is a fluid-filled sac that grows in the soft tissue and jawbone. Dentigerous cysts from wisdom teeth can carry dental problems. If you want to understand the dental…

Commonly Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal

Getting your wisdom teeth out can be a scary event. The thought of going through surgery may make you nervous or anxious. But in many cases, removing these third molars is the right decision for your health and smile. You do not have to go into this procedure blindly, however. As you learn more about…

Wisdom Teeth Extracton To Prevent Plaque Buildup

If you are thinking about wisdom teeth extraction, now might be the right time for this procedure. These third molars can create problems in the mouth, both cosmetically and for your health. It is often more sensible to take out the teeth before they ever emerge. Doing so can help you avoid many of the…

Simply Smiles Dentistry

Share
Published by
Simply Smiles Dentistry

Recent Posts

Implant Supported Dentures FAQs

The following is information that can help explain the advantages of implant supported dentures.

1 week ago

Ask a General Dentist: What Are My Teeth Straightening Options?

Thinking about improving the alignment of your teeth? Here are answers to some of the…

2 weeks ago

Dental Anxiety Treatment: Understanding Your Options

Millions of Americans avoid appointments with the dentist due to dental anxiety.

3 weeks ago

Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening

Whitening patients' teeth involves a simple procedure that a dentist can perform in one visit…

2 months ago

How to Care for Dental Implants

Dental implants are an investment that require regular care and monitoring.

2 months ago

What To Expect at a Consultation for Braces

Curious about what happens when you undergo a consultation for braces with your general dentist?

2 months ago