Did you know that wisdom teeth are a relic from the past? Indeed, they come from our ancestors, who needed more molars to chew raw meat and grind plant fibers. Over time, these molars were gradually abandoned as our species evolved, with the jaw and mandible shrinking significantly, leaving little space for the eighth tooth to grow.
The appearance of the last four teeth – also called eighths or third molars – two for the upper arch and two for the lower arch, generally occurs between the ages of 18 and 25 (hence the term “wisdom tooth,” referring to maturity), when the teeth are in a stable position.
It is often believed that wisdom teeth must be extracted as soon as they erupt. In reality, within the permanent dentition, they are as important as the other teeth. In fact, when there is enough space, there is no reason to remove them, even if they have not fully erupted.
The situation changes, however, when difficulties arise. Wisdom tooth extraction can be done for preventive or therapeutic reasons. The first case occurs when the tooth is removed between the ages of 12 and 16 to allow for the proper positioning and alignment of other teeth, preventing the risk of malocclusion and crooked teeth.
Extraction becomes inevitable when the following circumstances occur:
- When there is insufficient space in the dental arches and the eruption of the wisdom teeth is difficult or impossible.
- When, during development, the wisdom teeth take an incorrect, tilted position.
- When the teeth are partially erupted, leaving part of the tooth under the gum. These situations increase the likelihood of abscesses and inflammation.
- When the teeth are deemed to cause dental issues (such as cavities in adjacent teeth).
Although considered a routine and relatively simple procedure, the extraction of one or more wisdom teeth is still a surgical procedure. Therefore, it is essential to prepare adequately for the operation through specialized visits and proper information. Here, at Centro Odontoiatrico Pitino in Modica, Ragusa, we have a team of specialists who will guide you step by step, before, during, and after the procedure. The surgical procedure is painless, as it is performed under local anesthesia, to which, at our clinic, we can add conscious sedation upon the patient’s request (a procedure that significantly reduces anxiety and fear of the operation).
The procedure can involve extracting one tooth at a time or both wisdom teeth on the same side. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the dentist proceeds with the extraction, with the method varying depending on the level of eruption of the tooth, which can be fully or partially erupted or still completely embedded within the gum.
Modern technology allows us to minimize the risk of post-operative complications, ensuring a smooth and safe recovery. In the days following the procedure, it is common to experience some discomfort or pain, which can be controlled through the medication prescribed by the dentist. Swelling may also occur, which can make it difficult to open the mouth, but this will subside on its own. In this case, it is recommended not to force the movements and stay in contact with the dentist. Recovery time is, however, dependent on the difficulty of the procedure, and it is recommended to rest and consume food at room temperature or cold during the initial recovery phase.
To schedule a visit, contact us now: with over thirty years of experience, our oral surgery specialists, Dr. Vincenzo Pitino and Dr. Mattia Pitino, will be happy to assist you and address any oral health issues you may have.