What are Wisdom Teeth? What are They Used For?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually begin to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Located at the very back of the upper and lower jaws, there can be four of these teeth, one pair in each jaw. However, these teeth may not develop in the same way in every individual. Some people may not develop at all, while others may remain impacted or may erupt properly and function properly within the mouth.

In times when our ancestors had wider jaws, wisdom teeth actively served the purpose of chewing. Early humans typically had 32 teeth, and these teeth were an active part of the oral structure. Today, with the shrinkage of the jaw, the need for these teeth has decreased, and eruption problems have become more common due to insufficient space in the jaw.

Because wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the jaw and are difficult to clean, they are prone to decay and infection. If there is sufficient space in the jaw and the tooth has erupted properly, it can remain in the mouth with regular checkups. However, wisdom teeth that are impacted or are pressing on surrounding teeth often require surgical removal.

In such cases, a dental examination and radiological evaluation are essential. Your dentist will provide you with the most appropriate treatment plan.

How to Identify Impacted Wisdom Teeth Problems?

Impacted wisdom teeth, in particular, often present with toothache. If aching wisdom teeth have no room to erupt and are decayed, they can damage other teeth or cause other dental and gum problems. Wisdom teeth that are not partially impacted are also difficult to clean, and therefore more susceptible to decay and gum disease than other teeth.

Along with the toothache, symptoms such as redness, swelling, and gum tenderness in the area where the wisdom teeth were previously located may also occur. Additionally, symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, jaw, ear, and neck pain, headache, difficulty opening the mouth, bad breath, pain while chewing, and a feeling of pressure or pain in adjacent teeth are also observed. Wisdom teeth that cause pain or other dental problems, or that may damage adjacent teeth, are generally removed. However, wisdom teeth may not cause any problems or cause any symptoms in some people.

When such symptoms are observed, a dentist should be visited and appropriate treatment initiated. Unless wisdom teeth problems are resolved, they will worsen and negatively affect other teeth.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Extracted? Symptoms

Extraction of wisdom teeth is recommended in the following cases:

• Partially impacted: If they are partially exposed and partially embedded under the jawbone or gums, have no room to erupt, and are difficult to clean.
• If they cause pain: If there is pressure and pain in the area where the tooth is trying to erupt.
• If it damages adjacent teeth: If it puts pressure on adjacent teeth, causing them to decay or become misaligned, or if it causes decay due to inability to clean.
• If it is frequently infected: If recurring infections develop due to food residue accumulation around a partially erupted wisdom tooth.
• If there is decay or gum disease: Because they are difficult to reach in the back area, the risk of decay or periodontitis is higher in these teeth.
• If there is a risk of cyst formation: If the impacted wisdom tooth is at risk of developing cysts around it.

The decision to extract the tooth is made by the dentist after a clinical examination and radiological imaging such as panoramic or dental CT scans.

Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Requirement:

The following symptoms may indicate that your wisdom tooth is causing problems and may need to be removed:

• Swelling and redness in the gums
• Throbbing pain, especially felt at the back of the jaw
• Limited mouth opening and difficulty chewing
• Gum abscess or inflammation
• Pain radiating to the ear, throat, or jaw
• Bad breath
• Tenderness and swelling of the lymph nodes
• Fever
• Pain or pressure in the adjacent tooth
• Persistent inflammation of the gum covering the tooth (pericoronitis)

These symptoms should not be taken lightly, and a detailed evaluation should be made by a dentist. Delaying treatment can spread the infection, potentially causing permanent damage to adjacent teeth and the jawbone. If you experience these symptoms and problems, please contact us at +90 533 738 14 52 to schedule an appointment for more information.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Pain?

• Lack of Space in the Jaw

  Today, many people's jaws aren't wide enough for wisdom teeth to erupt properly. In this case, they either remain impacted or emerge partially impacted. This can put pressure on the gum tissue, jawbone, and neighboring teeth, causing discomfort.

  Wisdom teeth that develop horizontally or diagonally can't find room to erupt, causing them to crowd neighboring teeth and put pressure on their roots. Over time, they can decay neighboring teeth and cause problems such as pain and inflammation in the jawbone.

• Infection and Inflammation (Pericoronitis)

  A pocket can form between a partially erupted wisdom tooth and the gum. When food debris and bacteria accumulate in this area, inflammation (pericoronitis) can develop. This condition manifests itself with symptoms such as throbbing pain in the jaw, facial swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth.

• Decay

  Because wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth, they are difficult to brush. Therefore, they can easily decay. As decay progresses, it reaches the tooth nerve, causing severe pain.

• Gum Disease

  The gums surrounding wisdom teeth can become red, bleed, swell, and tender as the tooth erupts. This can cause pain in the area where the tooth erupts.

• Cyst or Pressure on Bone

  Although rare, a cyst can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. This cyst can enlarge and press on the surrounding area, causing chronic pain.

Wisdom teeth present different symptoms for each individual, and the position of the teeth, as well as whether they are impacted, can vary. Whether the pain is caused by simple inflammation, decay, or an impacted tooth requiring surgical intervention, can only be determined through a dentist's radiological and intraoral evaluation. At our Jimer Dental Clinics, located in Bursa Nilüfer Parkora and Odunluk Jimer Hospital, we successfully treat wisdom teeth with our expert dentists, who have over 15 years of experience. Whether impacted or not, all wisdom teeth treatments and surgical procedures are safely performed in our clinics by our expert oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Our advanced technical equipment allows us to complete all procedures in-house, eliminating the need to refer our patients to another clinic.

What are Impacted and Partially Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

The eruption of wisdom teeth depends on the individual's jaw and teeth structure. When they don't have enough space to emerge normally, they can remain partially or completely impacted in the jawbone. Due to narrowness in the jawbone where the back teeth are located or due to the pressure on neighboring teeth, wisdom teeth can't find enough space to erupt, becoming trapped by the gum or bone. Consequently, wisdom teeth can remain impacted because they lack the proper direction and location for eruption. Surgical extraction may be necessary if the tooth doesn't emerge through the gums at all (impacted) or if it partially erupts, leaving it vulnerable to infection (partially impacted).

How are wisdom teeth positioned in the mouth?

Positions of wisdom teeth in the jaw

• Straight Position (Properly Positioned Tooth)

  When there is sufficient space in the jawbone to erupt in line with the other molars, wisdom teeth are straight and erupt smoothly. If they don't cause any problems with neighboring teeth and contribute to chewing function, they may not need to be extracted. They can erupt and establish a permanent position within the mouth. However, because wisdom teeth are usually located at the very back of the mouth, brushing them can be difficult. Therefore, maintaining oral hygiene with regular dental checkups is important.

• Mesioangular Position (Forward-Looking Impacted Tooth)

  During development, wisdom teeth initially appear as buds in the jawbone in childhood. Then, between the ages of 17 and 25, as these teeth attempt to erupt, they first assume a mesioangular position and gradually attempt to erupt, returning to a vertical position. However, due to insufficient space and the presence of adjacent teeth, wisdom teeth that cannot move into a vertical position erupt at an angle toward the adjacent teeth and remain impacted in the jawbone. The crown of the tooth is tilted forward, which means it may not fully erupt or may put pressure on the adjacent tooth.

  This pressure on the adjacent tooth can cause decay, root resorption, pain, tooth crowding, infection, and even pain. Surgical extraction of teeth in this position protects the adjacent tooth and prevents other potential problems.

• Distoangular Position (Impacted Tooth Tilted Backward)

  A wisdom tooth is positioned in the jawbone in a backward-facing position. In this case, the crown of the tooth is tilted back and usually does not fully erupt. A distoangular tooth usually leans toward the space left behind or the jawbone. This position causes the tooth to deviate from its normal eruption direction. Because the tooth is tilted backward, it can put pressure on the adjacent teeth or jaw structure. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and other problems. Furthermore, because it is in a position difficult for cleaning, the risk of infection increases.

• Horizontal Position (Horizontal Impacted Tooth)

  A wisdom tooth is completely embedded in the jawbone and typically presses against the root of an adjacent tooth. The crown of the tooth is directed horizontally toward the root of the adjacent tooth or the gum line. In this case, the tooth's normal vertical eruption path is completely blocked, preventing it from erupting. A horizontally positioned tooth can damage the roots of adjacent teeth, causing pain and infection. It also leads to tooth misalignment over time. A wisdom tooth may need to be surgically removed before it can cause problems.

• Vertical Impacted Tooth

  A wisdom tooth is a tooth that is vertically embedded in the jawbone but has not fully erupted (impacted) due to the gum or bone. The tooth is positioned in its normal eruption direction, but it has been prevented from erupting due to an obstruction by the overlying bone or gum. Vertically impacted teeth generally do not put pressure on surrounding tissues, but they can pose a risk of infection, gum problems, or pain during eruption. Furthermore, prolonged impaction can lead to cyst formation. The condition of such teeth is evaluated based on the patient's complaints. If there is no damage, they can remain in the mouth under control and surgical extraction may be performed if necessary.

• Partially Erupted (Semi-Erupted) Tooth

  Part of the tooth has erupted within the mouth, but the remaining portion remains under the gum and has not fully erupted. In this case, a pocket forms between the gum and the tooth. This area provides a suitable environment for bacteria and can easily develop an infection (pericoronitis). Infection can result in symptoms such as pain, swelling, and a foul odor. If the infection is present or recurring frequently, surgical extraction of the tooth is generally recommended.

These positions are usually clearly determined with panoramic X-rays or dental tomography (3D imaging). Treatment decisions are made accordingly. At Jimer Dental Clinics, we use our advanced panoramic X-ray and dental tomography (3D imaging) devices to provide detailed visualization of the wisdom teeth within the bone and their proximity to neighboring teeth, thus determining an effective diagnosis and treatment.

Wisdom Teeth and Cyst Formation

Wisdom teeth, especially when impacted or partially impacted, can cause cysts to form in the surrounding tissues. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms around the tooth and grows. These cysts are usually painless at first and can grow unnoticed over time. If left untreated, they can cause problems such as swelling and pain in the jawbone, loosening of surrounding teeth, and deterioration of the jaw structure. Therefore, it is important to monitor and treat impacted wisdom teeth with regular dental checkups.

What is Wisdom Teeth Extraction? When is it Not Necessary?

When wisdom teeth don't have enough space to erupt, they may not emerge completely or may erupt in the wrong position, causing pain, infection, and other problems. Some wisdom teeth can find a place in the mouth and emerge properly in the correct position, but because these teeth are more difficult to clean, decay problems are common. Wisdom teeth extraction is the process of removing the tooth from the mouth, either surgically or through simple methods, depending on such problems. Furthermore, wisdom teeth are evaluated before orthodontic treatment, and extraction may be necessary to prevent further misalignment and crowding after orthodontic treatment.

If wisdom teeth are positioned correctly and have sufficient space to erupt, there is no damage to adjacent teeth, and they are free of decay, they can erupt healthily, align with other teeth, and contribute to chewing function. Regular dental checkups are recommended, and maintaining good oral hygiene is recommended to prevent decay.

Differences Between Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction and Simple Extraction

Simple Tooth Extraction:

This procedure is performed when the tooth is properly positioned in the jawbone and fully erupted within the mouth. In this case, the tooth has completed its healthy eruption in line with the other teeth. If it has decayed or caused gingivitis, it can be easily extracted under local anesthesia without damaging the surrounding tissues. The procedure is short and generally requires no stitches; it heals on its own.

Surgical Wisdom Tooth Extraction:

If the tooth is partially embedded in the bone, partially visible in the mouth, or closes to the nerve, or is in a cramped position between the bone and the adjacent tooth, surgical intervention is necessary. The oral surgeon accesses the wisdom tooth through a short surgical procedure, fragments it, and removes it. If necessary, stitches are placed in the gums. The recovery period is slightly longer than with a traditional extraction, but significant healing is observed within a week, and the stitches are removed after 7 days.

The extraction method is determined after an examination and x-ray evaluation by your dentist. Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia and are painless. The patient does not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.

How is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Performed at Jimer Dental Clinics? (Treatment Stages)

If a wisdom tooth has sufficient space in the mouth, erupted in the correct position, and is aligned with the other molars, it can be easily removed through a simple tooth extraction.

However, if it is gingival-retained (partially visible under the gum), partially impacted, or bone-retained (located within the bone), it can be impacted.

If these impacted teeth are pressing on neighboring teeth and are close to the jaw nerve, they must be surgically removed by an oral surgeon to prevent problems. During the wisdom tooth extraction process at Jimer Dental Clinics, a detailed examination and diagnosis are performed using advanced imaging technologies such as 3D volumetric tomography (CBCT) and panoramic X-rays. Using radiological images, the oral surgeon evaluates the tooth's position within the jawbone, its proximity to the nerves and neighboring teeth with millimeter precision, and then makes the surgical plan. Surgical planning, especially for partially or fully impacted wisdom teeth, becomes much safer thanks to this advanced imaging.

Every wisdom tooth case is thoroughly examined by our experienced oral surgeons. In cases where surgical extraction is necessary, a controlled and professional surgical procedure is performed without damaging the surrounding soft tissue and bone structure. This accelerates the healing process and prevents potential risks.

The stages of wisdom tooth extraction at Jimer Dental Clinics are as follows:

1. Radiographic Evaluation

   First, the tooth's location, distance from surrounding tissues, and relationship to nerves are examined in detail. A panoramic X-ray or, if necessary, a dental CT scan is taken for this purpose. The oral surgeon then evaluates all the images and makes a plan, deciding whether the tooth will be removed through a simple extraction or surgery.

2. Simple Extraction or Surgical Intervention

   Before the procedure, the area is numbed with local anesthesia for the patient's comfort. This eliminates pain during the procedure. In cases where the patient is unable to adapt to in-chair treatment, sedation or general anesthesia can also be considered. If the wisdom tooth has erupted properly and is positioned without damaging the surrounding tissues, a simple extraction can be performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. However, if the tooth is impacted, surgical opening of the gum and sometimes the bone may be necessary. In these cases, the procedure is performed by a specialist oral surgeon at Jimer Dental Clinics.

3. Post-Operative Dressing and Care

   After the tooth extraction, one or two stitches will be placed in the surgically opened area, if necessary. The doctor will provide detailed care recommendations to prevent infection and accelerate healing. Supportive methods such as cold compresses are also recommended for swelling and pain management. Antibiotics and painkillers may be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection and control pain after the surgery. Patients should refrain from smoking during the recovery period, maintain good oral hygiene, and take the recommended medications. Stitches are removed 7 days after the procedure, and healing is complete.

   Why choose Jimer for wisdom teeth extractions?

   At Jimer Dental Clinics, wisdom teeth extractions are performed with detailed planning and meticulous care by our experienced oral surgeons. Advanced imaging and precise surgical techniques, especially for impacted teeth, ensure a safe extraction without damaging the surrounding tissues. If you are looking for wisdom teeth extraction in Bursa, Nilüfer and would like to get information, you can request detailed information and an appointment from our contact number +90 533 738 14 52.

Anesthesia Options for Wisdom Teeth Treatment

While wisdom teeth extraction can be a simple procedure for some individuals, it can be quite anxiety-provoking or physically challenging for others. Therefore, Jimer Dental Clinics offers different anesthesia options based on the patient's needs:

• Wisdom Teeth Extraction with Local Anesthesia

  This is the most commonly used method. The area surrounding the tooth is numbed, completely eliminating pain during the procedure. The patient is conscious and awake during the procedure, but does not feel any pain or discomfort. It is a suitable method for patients who can tolerate chairside treatment.

• Wisdom Teeth Extraction with Sedation

  Sedation is a method that reduces anxiety by inducing a state of relaxation and comfort in the patient. The patient is semi-asleep, but can still respond physically and verbally. While it can be used for simple tooth extractions, it is not recommended for surgical wisdom teeth extractions that require longer procedures.

   

• Wisdom Teeth Extraction under General Anesthesia

  It may be preferred for some patient groups for surgical or simple wisdom teeth extractions. Wisdom teeth extraction under general anesthesia may be preferred, particularly for adults with disabilities, patients with a nausea reflex, or those with a fear of dentists, as in-chair treatment can be challenging and uncomfortable for these patients. Wisdom teeth extraction is safely performed under general anesthesia while the patient is deeply asleep. The patient feels no pain or discomfort during the procedure, and the treatment is completed in a single session upon awakening.

Wisdom Teeth Extraction and Pregnancy

Wisdom teeth can be treated and extracted during pregnancy, but it is generally preferred to have them removed during the second trimester (middle 3 months). This is safe and does not cause any health problems for the mother or baby. If there is no emergency, the dentist may choose to postpone treatment until after pregnancy. In cases of severe pain and requiring urgent intervention, the dentist may plan treatment immediately. In this case, the dentist will guide you during the preliminary examination for the safest treatment.

Things to Consider After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

After wisdom teeth extraction, you should drink plenty of fluids, eat soft foods, and take your dentist-prescribed medications regularly. In case of pain, you can take the painkillers prescribed by your dentist. The healing process usually takes 7-10 days, and patients should avoid smoking during this period. Smoking impairs and delays tissue healing. You should also rinse your mouth with a mouthwash prescribed by your dentist. Hot foods should be avoided; they should be kept lukewarm. It is also recommended to apply an ice compress for the first 24 hours to prevent swelling.

What Happens If a Partially Impacted Wisdom Tooth Is Not Extracted?

• Risk of Infection (Pericoronitis):
  If a partially impacted wisdom tooth is not extracted, it will create a pocket between the gum and the tooth. Food debris can easily accumulate in this space, creating a favorable environment for bacteria. Over time, inflammation (pericoronitis) develops in this area. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bad breath, difficulty chewing, fever, and difficulty swallowing.
• Damage to Adjacent Teeth:
  A partially impacted tooth can put pressure on the second molar directly in front of it. This pressure can lead to decay, root resorption, or misalignment of the adjacent tooth over time. If left untreated, it can also damage the adjacent tooth, potentially leading to the loss of a healthy tooth.
• It Can Cause Tooth Crowding:
  A wisdom tooth that pushes forward can cause crowding and misalignment, especially in the lower front teeth. Even after orthodontic treatment, the pressure from the wisdom tooth can cause further displacement. Extraction of these floating wisdom teeth may be recommended before orthodontic treatment.
• A Cyst or Bone Pressure May Develop:
  Over time, a cyst can form around an impacted tooth. This cyst can put pressure on the jawbone, weakening the bone and potentially damaging the roots of neighboring teeth.
• Chronic Pain and Difficulty Opening the Mouth:
  The gum over an impacted tooth or partially impacted tooth can be traumatized by chewing. This can cause chronic irritation, pain, and difficulty opening the mouth. While a partially impacted wisdom tooth may initially appear innocent, it can lead to serious oral health problems over time.

Early diagnosis and radiological imaging (panoramic X-ray or dental CT scan) can clarify the position of the tooth. It must be evaluated by a dentist and oral surgeon. If the dentist or oral surgeon deems it appropriate, surgical removal is recommended.

Complications and Risks of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

The extraction of wisdom teeth usually results in a smooth recovery. However, in some cases, complications can arise due to factors such as the tooth's location within the jaw, its proximity to surrounding tissues, and the patient's inadequate oral hygiene. While these risks are rare, taking precautions and planning the extraction process correctly are crucial for a healthy recovery.

The blood clot that is necessary for healing in the extraction cavity after tooth extraction may not form as expected or may not form at all. This can lead to the bone being exposed, leading to a complication called dry socket (alveolitis). Furthermore, if adequate oral hygiene is not maintained after surgical extraction and smoking is common, infection can develop at the wound site. Therefore, patients are advised to maintain oral hygiene and quit smoking. For lower jaw wisdom teeth, due to their proximity to the nerve, nerve damage can occur. To prevent this, the procedure should be carefully planned and a CT scan, etc. Risks should be identified in advance through imaging techniques, precautions should be taken, and the extraction should be performed appropriately by an oral surgeon.

At Jimer Dental Clinics, our oral surgeons specializing in jaw surgery conduct a detailed radiological evaluation (panoramic X-rays and, if necessary, 3D volumetric tomography) and a comprehensive intraoral examination before wisdom tooth extraction, thoroughly analyzing all risks. This way, we strive to prevent potential complications such as nerve damage, infection, and dry socket. Having a wisdom tooth surgically extracted by an oral surgeon largely mitigates these potential risks.