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Wisdom Teeth Glossary

Explore our dental dictionary to learn about common Wisdom Teeth terms. If you have any other questions or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you.

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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.

Common Dental Terminology

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Cosmetic Dentistry Terminology

  • Dental Veneers Glossary
  • Teeth Whitening Glossary
  • Cosmetic Dentistry Glossary

Orthodontics Terminology

  • Clear Aligners Glossary
  • Orthodontics Glossary

Emergency Care Terminology

  • Dental Emergency Glossary

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