What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Wisdom teeth are a natural part of human dentition, but due to space constraints in the modern human jaw, they often require removal to prevent dental complications. Advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care have significantly improved the outcomes for patients undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, making the process more efficient and less painful.

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that typically emerge in the late teenage years or early adulthood. They are located at the back of the mouth and are the final teeth to develop. Due to evolutionary changes in human jaw size, many people do not have enough space for these teeth to emerge properly, leading to a variety of dental issues.

Common Issues with Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth often become impacted, meaning they do not have enough room to emerge or develop normally. This can lead to pain, infection, and other dental problems. Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at various angles in the jaw, sometimes even horizontally, which can cause damage to adjacent teeth or lead to cysts and other complications1 2 6.

Surgical Extraction Techniques

The extraction of wisdom teeth is a common procedure to prevent or address complications. Various surgical techniques are employed, including traditional surgical extraction, piezo surgery, laser-assisted extraction, and advanced methods using 3D imaging and navigation systems. These advanced techniques have been shown to reduce surgery time, minimize complications, and improve postoperative outcomes such as pain, swelling, and healing time1 6 8.

Postoperative Care and Complications

Post-surgical care is crucial for recovery after wisdom tooth extraction. Common postoperative issues include pain, swelling, and limited mouth opening. Various treatments, such as the use of bromelain, dexamethasone, and platelet-rich fibrin, have been studied for their effectiveness in reducing these symptoms and promoting healing4 5 7. Additionally, low-level laser therapy has been explored for its potential to enhance wound healing and reduce inflammation9 10.