Wisdom teeth are the four molars that erupt at the back of the mouth, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. In some cases, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they are unable to erupt fully or correctly. This can happen due to a lack of space in the jawbone, or because the wisdom teeth are growing in at an angle.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Pain and swelling in the gums and jaw
- Infection
- Damage to adjacent teeth
- Crowding of the teeth
- Headaches
In most cases, impacted wisdom teeth need to be extracted. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common surgical procedure, but it does carry some risks and complications.
Common Risks and Complications of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The most common risks and complications of include:
- Dry socket: A dry socket is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket after extraction dislodges or dissolves too early. This can happen due to smoking, rinsing the mouth too vigorously, or having a history of dry sockets.
- Infection: Infection is another common complication of wisdom tooth extraction. Symptoms of infection include fever, swelling, redness, and pain.
- Alveolar osteitis: Alveolar osteitis is a more serious type of infection that can occur in the bone after extraction. It is most common in smokers and people with diabetes.
- Nerve damage: The nerves that supply sensation to the teeth, lips, and tongue are located in the jawbone. During wisdom tooth extraction, there is a small risk of damage to these nerves. This can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected area.
- Jawbone damage: In some cases, wisdom tooth extraction can damage the jawbone. This is more likely to happen if the wisdom teeth are deeply impacted or if the surgeon has to remove a large amount of bone.
- Sinus perforation: The sinuses are air-filled cavities located above the upper jawbone. If the wisdom teeth are located close to the sinuses, there is a small risk that the surgeon may perforate the sinus membrane during extraction. This can cause pain, swelling, and bleeding.
Rare Risks and Complications of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Rare risks and complications of wisdom tooth extraction include:
- Trismus: Trismus is a condition that causes the jaw muscles to tighten, making it difficult to open the mouth.
- Excessive bleeding: In some cases, excessive bleeding can occur after wisdom tooth extraction. This is more likely to happen in people with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to the local anesthetic or other medications used during wisdom tooth extraction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, itching, and swelling.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Complications
There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of complications after wisdom tooth extraction:
- Choose a qualified oral surgeon: It is important to choose an oral surgeon who is experienced in performing wisdom tooth extraction procedures.
- Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully: Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth and teeth after surgery. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to reduce your risk of complications.
- Take all medications as prescribed: Your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to help prevent infection after surgery. Be sure to take all medications as prescribed.
- Keep the extraction site clean: It is important to keep the extraction site clean to prevent infection. You can do this by rinsing your mouth with salt water several times a day.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol: Smoking and drinking alcohol can delay healing and increase your risk of infection. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for several days after surgery.
- Report any problems to your surgeon immediately: If you experience any problems after surgery, such as pain, swelling, or fever, be sure to contact your surgeon immediately.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth extraction is a safe and effective procedure when performed by a qualified oral surgeon. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and complications before surgery. By following your surgeon's instructions carefully and reporting any problems immediately, you can reduce your risk of complications.
