Comprehensive Guide to Wisdom Teeth Symptoms and Extraction

Wisdom teeth often represent a painful and uncomfortable period for many people. Individuals whose wisdom teeth do not emerge properly may experience severe toothaches. The cause of these toothaches is often related to the improper or incomplete eruption of the tooth. This condition can occasionally lead to dental infections. Additionally, improper eruption of wisdom teeth can negatively impact the gums and other teeth. In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the symptoms of wisdom teeth and their extraction. Let’s aim to explain every frequently asked question in the simplest and most accurate way possible:

What Are the Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. If you feel changes in the very back parts of your mouth during this age range, the process has likely started for you as well. Let’s briefly outline the symptoms of wisdom teeth:

• Difficulty Chewing and Speaking: The eruption process can affect the alignment of teeth, causing these issues.
• Pressure and Sensitivity in the Gums: Swelling and a sense of pressure may occur in the area where the wisdom tooth is emerging.
• Pain and Discomfort: A throbbing sensation is often felt around the tooth root or along the jawline.
• Infection in the Gums: Impacted or partially erupted teeth can lead to infections in the gums.

At What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Emerge?

As mentioned above, the most common age range for wisdom teeth to emerge is between 17 and 25. However, it’s important to note that this can vary from person to person. Although rare, wisdom teeth may appear as late as the age of 30. Additionally, some individuals may never develop wisdom teeth at all, which typically does not pose any issues. Nevertheless, it’s essential to never neglect regular dental check-ups!

Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Whether a wisdom tooth should be removed depends on its position and the symptoms it causes. Ultimately, the decision will rest with your dentist. If you are experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth, it’s important to consult a dentist promptly, as impacted teeth have a high risk of causing infections. Let’s address wisdom teeth removal step by step:

• Teeth That Emerge Without Issues: If the tooth does not exert pressure on neighboring teeth and does not carry a risk of infection, removal will not be necessary.
• If the Tooth Is Impacted or Misaligned: Removal is recommended if the tooth is damaging adjacent teeth or causing pain in the jaw.

What happens if a problematic wisdom tooth is not removed? The tooth may press against neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment or the formation of cysts in the jawbone.

What Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction and How Is It Performed?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a procedure typically carried out by a dentist or an oral surgeon. The process can be summarized in the following steps:

• X-Ray Examination: The position of the tooth is determined.
• Local Anesthesia: The tooth and surrounding area are numbed.
• Tooth Extraction: If the tooth is in an upright position, it is removed easily; however, if it is impacted or misaligned, surgical intervention may be required.

How Long Does Pain Last After Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Pain following the extraction of an impacted wisdom tooth typically subsides within 3-7 days. During this time, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations, use prescribed medications, and keep the extraction site clean.

Wisdom Tooth Surgery and Patient Feedback

Wisdom tooth surgery is performed under local anesthesia. After the procedure, patients often share the following experiences:

• “It wasn’t as bad as I expected. My dentist did a fantastic job.”
• “I had slight swelling for the first two days, but then I felt much better.”
• “Regular cold compresses helped reduce the swelling.”

How Many Wisdom Teeth Do We Have?

Normally, there are four wisdom teeth in the mouth—two on the upper jaw and two on the lower jaw. However, some individuals may not develop all of them, or one or more of the teeth may remain impacted. Observing the symptoms mentioned earlier can help you determine how many wisdom teeth you have.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Costs

The cost of wisdom tooth extraction varies depending on whether the tooth is impacted, the expertise of the dentist, and the city you are in. As of 2024, prices generally range from 1,800 to 6,000 TL.

Don’t underestimate the problems caused by wisdom teeth, and don’t hesitate to consult a dentist. If you are experiencing wisdom tooth symptoms and are of the typical age for their emergence, acting quickly will be in your best interest. Feel free to contact us for assistance with your dental treatment needs.

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