WHAT IS 'WISDOM TOOTH'
Wisdom teeth are third molars. They are the last to appear or erupt at the back of your mouth. They usually appear when you are between 17 and 25 years old, the so-called years of attaining wisdom. However, wisdom teeth may also appear many years later in adult life.
Why Do I Need to Remove My Wisdom Tooth?
Wisdom teeth can lead to problems if there is no space for them to surface or erupt in the wrong position. Your wisdom teeth may also be impacted, which means they are trapped in your jaw or under your gums. They are difficult to clean, act as food trap and will lead to the following problems:
- The gums overlying impacted wisdom teeth get infected, and become swollen. This is a painful condition called 'pericoronitis'.
- They cause decay on the second molar tooth in front.
- Teeth in front become crowded.
- They can develop into cysts causing damage to the neighbouring tooth.
AFTER WISDOM TOOTH SURGERY
- Continue biting on the gauze with firm pressure for 1-2 hours.
- Do not rinse mouth vigorously.
- Consume soft and cool diet.
- Avoid eating for 3-4 hours after surgery, to avoid lip biting.
- Avoid smoking especially for 24 hours
- Swelling or bruising on face may be expected. It will subside within few days.
- Do not engage in strenuous activities for at least 4-5 days after surgery.
- Take medication as prescribed
- Brush your teeth as usual. Brush gently at the wound area.
- Please visit dentist in 1 week time to remove sutures.