Wisdom Teeth Terminology

About Wisdom Teeth

• Third Molars: The clinical term for wisdom teeth, as they are the third set of molars to erupt.
• Impacted Wisdom Tooth: A wisdom tooth that is unable to erupt properly due to lack of space or incorrect positioning.
• Pericoronitis: Inflammation of the gum tissue around a partially erupted wisdom tooth.

Reasons for Removal

• Overcrowding of Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push on other teeth, causing misalignment.
• Cysts and Tumors Around Wisdom Teeth: Rarely, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts or tumors.
• Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can damage the roots of nearby teeth.
• Gum Disease Associated with Wisdom Teeth: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create areas where bacteria can accumulate, leading to gum disease.
• Infection Related to Wisdom Teeth: Pericoronitis or other infections can occur around impacted wisdom teeth.

Surgical Procedures

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia numbs the area, while sedation options are available for anxious patients.
• Coronectomy: Removing only the crown of the wisdom tooth, leaving the roots in place.
• Incision: A cut made in the gums to access an impacted wisdom tooth.
• Odontectomy: The surgical removal of a wisdom tooth.
• Sectioning: Dividing the wisdom tooth into smaller sections for easier removal.

Post-Operative Care

• Dry Socket: A painful condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged.
• Gauze: Used to control bleeding after the extraction.
• Ice Pack: Applied to the face to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Pain Medication: Prescribed or over-the-counter medication to manage pain.
• Sutures (Stitches): Used to close the gums after the extraction.