Risks Involved in Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth are the teeth present in the mouth behind the second molars. These are the last teeth that erupt in the mouth. Some may not have these teeth and some have them impacted. Wisdom teeth removal is one of the common surgical procedures performed around the world. But its use is controversial as some recent research suggests that removal of wisdom teeth even in the case of impaction is unwarranted if it is not symptomatic.

When to remove?
Wisdom teeth removal is indicated only in cases of decayed teeth, infection in the area or possible destruction to the neighboring teeth. An underlying cyst may also need removal of the wisdom tooth. But unnecessary removal of the third molars is done regularly which is to be avoided.

There is some amount of tenderness in your mouth where the wisdom teeth are erupting and this is completely a normal happening. The soreness recedes once the tooth comes out. Opting for surgery when there is no visible discomfort on your part is a risky decision as wisdom teeth removal has a lot of side effects.

Possible risks:
In the case of an upper wisdom tooth removal, the roots of the tooth are very near to the maxillary sinus. Removal may sometime result in an opening in the sinus. This may get infected. Sinus infections do not heal soon and have a poor response to antibiotics. In many cases another surgery is needed to drain the sinus and close the opening.

Another drawback of wisdom teeth removal is the damage the procedure causes to the nerves present in the area. The lingual nerve is the frequently damaged nerve. This nerve is responsible for pain sensation and also maintains the oral temperature. While doing the surgery a lingual nerve retractor is used frequently by dentists. This may cause damage to the nerve inadvertently.

The inferior alveolar nerve is another nerve that can be injured during surgery. This nerve supplies to the teeth in the lower jaw and also to the lower lip area and the chin. New daily persistent headache is another complication caused by wisdom teeth removal. You get persistent head ache which varies in intensity. It is associated with migraine like symptoms.

Dry socket, fracture to the jaws and persistent bleeding are few other problems associated with wisdom teeth removal. With these various risks involved, removal without a particular cause should be avoided at all costs. If your dentist suggests removal of your wisdom teeth consult with him in detail and know the reason for the removal. If you do not have any pain or other associated symptoms like infection or cyst then it is better to stay away from surgery.