Caring for Wisdom Teeth

Woollahra Dental would like to share some information developed by the ADA to provide information on managing and caring for wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth have an uncanny way of erupting at around the same time that people are planning their first overseas adventure. Rather than risking a toothache half way around the world, the ADA recommends getting wisdom teeth assessed prior to any extended travel.

Impacted teeth are a common problem experienced with wisdom teeth. Impaction may be due to soft tissues (i.e. gums) continuing to cover part or whole of the wisdom tooth or hard tissues such as other teeth or bone preventing the teeth erupting successfully into the mouth. Teeth that become impacted are generally more likely to cause problems.

It is not known why wisdom teeth become impacted but one theory suggests that as our diet has become more refined over time, the teeth in front of the wisdom teeth are surviving longer and not wearing as much.

A wisdom tooth that fails to erupt completely through the gum can result in the gum at the back of the wisdom tooth extending over the biting surface, forming a soft tissue flap or lid around the tooth called an operculum. A wisdom tooth covered by an operculum can be difficult to clean properly. Food and bacteria can easily accumulate under the flap, which may cause an infection. This is a common problem in young adults with partial wisdom tooth impaction. Symptoms include swelling and redness of the gum around the tooth, difficulty in opening the mouth, a bad odour or taste in the mouth, and pain in the general area, which may run down the entire lower jaw or the neck.

Untreated, infection can develop into a much more severe infection. Accessing dental care in another country can be expensive and difficult, and in some cases, the infection control requirements for overseas countries are far less rigorous than in Australia, making for less than optimal care.

Some points to note with wisdom teeth: Pain – Sometimes when wisdom teeth are erupting the site of the tooth can be painful and tender. Your dentist can provide advice on how to manage discomfort and can also check your teeth for problems such as impaction and overcrowding.

Cavities - Wisdom teeth can have a higher rate of decay due to their location and difficulty in leaning them properly. They can also have lower exposure to fluoride, which can help protect teeth against decay.

Care and prevention – Always get a dental check up before travelling overseas. In fact, regular visits to the dentist can save on treatment and pain in the future. Maintain good oral hygiene while travelling and when at home.

Brush your teeth after eating, floss daily and rinse well.


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sources: 
ADA Australian Dental Association 
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