Wisdom tooth extraction

Introduction

The wisdom teeth are the last, backmost cheek teeth, also called 8s by the dentist. They are located very far back in the jaw and are the last to appear only in adulthood from about 16 years of age. Since there is often very little space for these teeth, it is necessary to remove them before they cause damage to the other permanent teeth.

So-called “extraction” describes the process of removing the wisdom tooth from the oral cavity and is called “extraction” by experts. If the teeth are already on the surface, this can happen very quickly. However, if they are still deeply embedded in the jawbone, the removal may take longer because bone has to be removed.

Procedure for wisdom tooth removal

The procedure of wisdom teeth removal is always very similar, although it can sometimes change slightly due to difficulties caused by a misalignment. At the beginning, the dentist will paralyze the area with a syringe and anesthetic, thus making it painless. After about five minutes the injection takes effect and the actual tooth extraction can begin.

If the teeth are well aligned, they can be removed like “normal” teeth. The gum fibers around the tooth are detached from the tooth and the tooth is loosened. Then the tooth is removed from its tooth socket with pliers or a dental instrument called a “lever” and pulled.

However, the lower wisdom teeth in particular are often still found below the gums due to lack of space. Then an additional incision with a scalpel must be made and the tooth must be exposed. Depending on the depth of the tooth, bone is removed with a drill before the tooth becomes visible.

Then the tooth can be removed with the lever. Afterwards, the tooth compartment must be cleaned and rinsed thoroughly and any remaining inflammation must be removed thoroughly. Finally, the gum is sutured in the right place and sometimes a medication is applied to the wound area. The cheek should then be cooled well and bitten on a swab for about half an hour to stop bleeding. After about a week the stitches are removed again.