How Wisdom Teeth Tell Us That Life Is Not Always Fair

The human body has adapted well over the centuries to changes in lifestyle, diet and environment. The typical adult is very different, therefore, to their Neolithic counterpart. However, some parts of the body are yet to "catch up" and present characteristics that are simply not required in the modern-day world. This certainly accounts for why people have to deal with their wisdom teeth, which are always superfluous to their needs. If you're only learning about these "extra" teeth as they're causing you pain, what do you need to know?

What Are These Teeth?

Dentists call these wisdom teeth "third" molars and they can be very problematic in some cases. For most of adolescence these teeth are hidden beneath the surface and only start to move into position after many years of development. As they try and break through the skin, they often come up against other obstructions such as bone structure or other teeth.

What Can Go Wrong

A few people are able to live with wisdom teeth through their lifetime, without causing any issues. For others, they break through the skin with no problem. However, for many they will become impacted and unable to move into position as they are blocked from doing so by existing teeth, gums and bone. Unfortunately, the fact that they cannot move any further will not stop the body from trying to "push" the teeth forward and this action can cause some considerable pain in the individual.

Getting to the "Root" of It

It's important for you to see your dentist so that they can determine exactly what is happening. X-rays will tell them exactly where the teeth are and what's getting in the way. Often, these teeth will have to be removed and this can sometimes be a tricky task based on their actual position.

Dealing with Infection

Above anything else, dentists will be on the lookout for any infection that may appear. This can happen when the wisdom teeth have broken the surface in their attempt to move through, allowing bacteria to get into the site. This will need to be treated as soon as possible and the dentist will want to wash out any debris that is trapped in there, together with the bacteria. You may be given some over-the-counter painkillers, an anti-inflammatory or antibiotics, as necessary.

What Happens Next?

There are many different techniques available to the dentist in order to help them remove wisdom teeth. If they can be left in place without them causing any issues this is preferable, but otherwise your dentist will advise the next course of action.

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