These are the 3rd molars in your mouth, the ones at the very back that usually appear between the ages of 18 and 25. There are usually 4 wisdom teeth (one on each side, top and bottom), but it’s becoming increasingly common for one or more to be naturally missing (agenesis). They are probably the most demonized of teeth, and are also surrounded by myths. Starting with the claim that they “push” the other teeth out of the way, they are often wrongly blamed for the late shifting of the front teeth. Although they can influence adjacent structures, they are not the cause of crowding in the anterior teeth (this is because the bone tends to shrink over time, so the teeth take their place).
Why remove wisdom teeth?
Even if they’re not the cause of certain discrepancies, we’re increasingly having to remove them. Often, the space they occupy doesn’t allow them to fully emerge or position themselves correctly. They can be difficult to clean and are removed either as a preventive measure or when a cavity or infection has set in. Depending on their position, they can also cause damage to the teeth directly next to them. It is therefore wiser to avulse a misplaced wisdom tooth at an early stage, rather than risk damaging an adjacent tooth that has not asked for it. Finally, a tooth without an antagonist is sometimes more of a nuisance than anything else, and can be removed for this reason.
Does it hurt?
The operation is always performed under anaesthetic. The post-operative course depends on a number of factors: position, tooth shape, whether or not the bone needs to be milled… To ensure maximum comfort, your practitioner will prepare a prescription tailored to the procedure and your needs.
How can you relieve their flare-up?
Like all dental growths, wisdom teeth growths can be sensitive, even painful. If this is your case, talk to your dental surgeon. You can also apply a cold pack for a few minutes every hour, or take suitable creams available in pharmacies (with or without prescription). In all cases, the advice of your dental surgeon is highly recommended.
Also worth seeing: Stomatology at Dr Maire’s dental surgery in Lisbon