Note to self: (check on impacted wisom teeth)
Your Dentist: Wisdom Teeth: "Your dentist may recommend early removal of one or more wisdom teeth because there is not enough room for the tooth to push through; or you need orthodontic work, and the remaining teeth would be crowded by wisdom teeth, making existing problems worse.

It is best to have troublesome wisdom teeth removed when you are still young. The tooth roots have not yet completely formed and the bone surrounding the tooth is softer allowing easier removal of the tooth, with less risk of damage to nerves, bone or other teeth.

An impacted wisdom tooth will start to push through the gum, and an infection can start around the top of the tooth. Infection and inflammation can cause pain, swelling and jaw stiffness. Swallowing may be painful. The infection can cause bad breath.

Your Dentist may clean the infected area around the tooth. You may be advised to rinse your mouth often with a warm saltwater mouthwash.

Use one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. The water should be as warm as possible, but not too hot. Your dentist may also suggest a disinfectant mouthwash and a pain killer for you to use.

Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics. Tell your dentist if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any antibiotics or other drugs.

Pressure from the wisdom tooth may cause pain in the tooth next to it. Pain can also be caused by infection around the wisdom tooth.

If a wisdom tooth is not removed, a cyst can form around the tooth and may displace the tooth. This can destroy bone and damage other teeth and the gums. An impacted wisdom tooth may keep pushing the molar next to it. This can cause an erosion cavity where the wisdom tooth hits the other molar. This often leads to serious damage to both teeth. The molars may become infected or abscessed. Removal of both molars is often needed.

An upper wisdom tooth may push sideways out of the gum. It may cause an ulcer where it rubs against the inside of the cheek. Food can also become trapped between the wisdom tooth and the molar next to it. This can cause cavities in both teeth.

It's always a good idea to ask your dentist about 'the state of play' with your wisdom teeth, that is if they have not already been removed!




"