The 3rd molars (known as wisdom teeth) erupt up to about 18 years old, at the onset of adulthood.

However, in case their eruption is not possible, usually due to lack of necessary space in the given area of the jaw or incorrect direction of their eruption, these teeth remain enclosed or semi-enclosed, covered by bone and soft tissue in the area.

Impacted 3rd molars usually do not cause symptoms, however over time they may contribute to the development of osseous cysts or tumors. Semi-impacted 3rd molars are most often accompanied by symptoms due to caries of the same or adjacent tooth or due to the development of inflammation of the gums that cover them, a condition defined as pericoronitis. Sometimes it is recommended that these teeth should be removed for orthodontic reasons.

Wisdom teeth are classified according to their orientation and direction, depth of enclosure, angle and number of roots, as well as their proximity to adjacent anatomical elements, etc. All these characteristics are taken into account in order to assess the level of difficulty of their removal, the extraction technique to be applied, the anticipated duration of surgery and possible complications: all these elements must be evaluated and discussed with the patient.

The examination for the presence of 3rd molars and the evaluation for the necessity of their extraction takes place during adolescence, including clinical and radiographic examination usually with panoramic x-ray. The reason why it is recommended to extract wisdom teeth at this early age is because the roots of the wisdom teeth are not fully formed, the jaw bone that surrounds them is more elastic in the younger individual. Consequently, the wound heals more easily and quickly, and thus the impact of the operation is less severe.

These teeth are surgically removed using a standard extraction technique depending on the characteristics of the each case, properly evaluated preoperatively by the Oral Surgeon. Usually the procedure, after reaching a sufficient depth of anesthesia, takes an average of 15 minutes and is completely painless. Regarding postoperative care, the patient will follow specific oral hygiene instructions for faster wound healing and avoidance of complications.


Frequently asked questions

Will I be able to work the day after the operation?

After the operation, appropriate painkillers are administered so that the patient does not suffer. It is possible to return to work the next day unless it is heavy duty manual labor in which case it is recommended that the patient should not return to work for at least 2 days. In such a scenario, an appropriate medical certificate is issued for sick leave.

Should I pay attention to oral hygiene and for how long after the operation?

After the operation, appropriate instructions will be given to maintain oral hygiene using antiseptic solution, healing gel and brushing the teeth at regular intervals. Usually, the instructions of oral hygiene should be maintained for a period of about 3 weeks, the time that it usually takes for the wound to heal. During this time it is helpful to quit smoking if you are a smoker.

Will there be severe swelling and for how long following the operation?

Postoperative edema is a normal reaction of the human body, related to the severity of the trauma of the operation, as well as the manipulations and duration of the procedure, but also to the particular characteristics of each individual. Postoperatively, cold compresses are recommended for external use in the affected area, as well as frequent consumption of cold liquids and avoidance of sun exposure on the day of the operation. The patient may be given anti-inflammatory drugs to further reduce the swelling after consulting with the patient regarding any possible contraindications. However, regardless of the measures applied, the swelling gradually disappears after 48 - 72 hours.


Photographs

Enclosed 3rd Molar
Enclosed 3rd Molar
Enclosed 3rd Molar
Enclosed 3rd Molar