How maxillofacial manage our Third (3rd) Molar & Removal​
Maxillofacial surgeons are involved in the management and removal of third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth. Third molars are the last set of teeth to emerge in the oral cavity, usually during the late teenage years or early adulthood. However, due to various factors such as limited space or improper alignment, third molars can become impacted or partially erupted, leading to oral health issues.
The management of third molars involves a comprehensive assessment of their position, alignment, and potential impact on oral health. Maxillofacial surgeons utilize various diagnostic tools, such as X-rays and dental imaging, to evaluate the condition of the third molars and determine the best course of action.
In cases where third molars are causing pain, infection, gum disease, or damage to adjacent teeth, maxillofacial surgeons may recommend their removal. This procedure, known as third molar extraction or wisdom tooth extraction, involves the surgical removal of one or more third molars from the oral cavity.
Maxillofacial surgeons perform wisdom tooth extraction using specialized techniques and tools, ensuring patient comfort and optimal outcomes. Depending on the complexity of the case, the procedure may be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. The surgeon carefully removes the impacted or partially erupted tooth, taking necessary precautions to protect surrounding structures, such as nerves and blood vessels.
By managing and removing third molars, maxillofacial surgeons help prevent or address complications associated with these teeth, including pain, infection, gum inflammation, cysts, and damage to neighboring teeth. They prioritize patient comfort and safety throughout the process, providing appropriate pain management and post-operative care instructions.
The management and removal of third molars are important aspects of maxillofacial surgery, contributing to the overall oral health and well-being of patients. Maxillofacial surgeons utilize their expertise in dental and facial anatomy to perform these procedures effectively and ensure optimal patient outcomes.
What Is Third Molar Extraction?
Third molar extraction, commonly known as wisdom tooth removal, is necessary for individuals with overcrowded mouths. Although some people may feel apprehensive about having a tooth extracted, various options, such as sedation, are available to alleviate dental anxiety. This is particularly significant for patients with impacted third molars.
During the third molar extraction procedure, a skilled dentist will first administer a previously agreed-upon anesthetic to ensure the patient’s comfort. Using specialized dental instruments, the dentist will carefully remove the tooth. Typically, this process only takes a few minutes. In cases where the wisdom tooth is impacted, a small incision may be required to access and extract the tooth.
Why it's done
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the final permanent teeth to emerge in the mouth. Typically, they appear between the ages of 17 and 25. It’s worth noting that not everyone develops wisdom teeth. For some individuals, these teeth erupt normally, just like their other molars, and do not cause any issues.
However, many people experience impacted wisdom teeth, which means the teeth lack sufficient space to fully emerge into the mouth or develop normally. Impacted wisdom teeth may partially erupt or not erupt at all.
An impacted wisdom tooth may exhibit the following characteristics:
- Growing at an angle towards the adjacent tooth (second molar)
- Growing at an angle towards the back of the mouth
- Growing perpendicularly to the other teeth, resembling a horizontally positioned tooth within the jawbone
- Growing vertically up or down, similar to other teeth, but remaining trapped within the jawbone
Problems with impacted wisdom teeth
If you experience any of the following issues due to an impacted wisdom tooth, it is highly probable that you will require extraction:
- Pain: Persistent pain in the area around the impacted wisdom tooth.
- Food and debris trapping: Difficulty cleaning or constant accumulation of food particles and debris behind the wisdom tooth.
- Infection or gum disease: Development of infection or gum disease (periodontal disease) in the area surrounding the impacted tooth.
- Tooth decay: Decay occurring in a partially erupted wisdom tooth, which can be challenging to treat.
- Damage to adjacent tooth or bone: Impacted wisdom teeth may cause damage to the neighboring tooth or the surrounding jawbone.
- Formation of a cyst: The development of a fluid-filled sac (cyst) around the impacted wisdom tooth.
- Orthodontic complications: Impacted wisdom teeth can interfere with orthodontic treatments aimed at aligning other teeth.
Preventing future dental problems
There is a difference of opinion among dental specialists regarding the necessity of extracting asymptomatic impacted wisdom teeth that are not causing any problems.
Predicting future issues related to impacted wisdom teeth is challenging. However, here are the reasons supporting preventive extraction:
- Even asymptomatic wisdom teeth can harbor disease: Although they may not be causing symptoms, impacted wisdom teeth can still be susceptible to dental diseases, such as tooth decay or gum disease.
- Limited access to proper cleaning: When there is insufficient space for the wisdom tooth to fully emerge, it becomes challenging to clean it effectively, increasing the risk of dental problems.
- Lower risk of complications in younger adults: Serious complications associated with wisdom teeth are less common in younger adults. Therefore, preventive extraction at a younger age may minimize the chances of future complications.
- Increased difficulties and complications in older adults: Older adults may encounter more challenges during the surgical extraction of wisdom teeth and are at a higher risk of complications post-surgery.
Ultimately, the decision regarding the extraction of asymptomatic impacted wisdom teeth should be made after consulting with a dental professional who can assess the individual case and provide personalized recommendations.
Need your third molars extracted?
Uncertain about whether you require a third molar extraction? It is crucial to closely monitor the growth of your wisdom teeth. If they are emerging without causing any oral issues, it indicates that your mouth has sufficient space to accommodate the additional molars. However, if they are growing in a misaligned manner or causing your other teeth to shift, extraction may be necessary. If you have any inquiries, feel free to ask us for guidance and clarification!