Month: January 2024

Wisdom Tooth Removal – Frequently Asked Questions

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History notes that hundreds if not thousands of years ago, our third molar teeth were meant for chewing – but not anymore. With time, our jaws became smaller until they didn’t have enough room for the teeth that erupted the last – the wisdom teeth. This is one of the reasons why there are so many complications associated with wisdom teeth and why they need to be removed so commonly. 

If your dentist has told you they need to remove one of your wisdom teeth, you may have many questions about this procedure. This blog will provide all the information you need about wisdom teeth removal. So continue reading to find out more about this procedure. 

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

According to the British Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, wisdom teeth are the last ones that erupt in the jaw. These teeth are so-called because they come in the mouth at a time when one attains maturity – anywhere between 16 – 24 years of age. However, despite their name, wisdom teeth are associated with many issues. 

Why Do Dentists Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. However, those third molar teeth that frequently cause problems or those that may damage the neighbouring teeth should be removed. Some of the situations that require the removal of wisdom teeth are:

  • Pericoronitis – this is a painful condition in which the soft tissues around a partially erupted (impacted) wisdom tooth become inflamed. When pericoronitis occurs frequently, it is best to remove the affected wisdom tooth. 
  • Grossly Damaged Wisdom Teeth – if a wisdom tooth has become grossly damaged and cannot be restored, your dentist may consider removing it. 
  • Orthodontic Purposes –  Sometimes, wisdom teeth are extracted to create space and realign the remaining teeth with braces or clear aligners. 

What Are The Pros And Cons of Removing Wisdom Teeth?

Your dentist will consider all the pros and cons of removing impacted wisdom teeth before performing the procedure. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of wisdom teeth removal:

  • Pain Relief – removing a grossly damaged wisdom tooth will save from the severe pain and discomfort of pericoronitis. 
  • Preserve the Other Teeth – removing an infected wisdom tooth will prevent damage to the adjacent teeth. 
  • Optimal Tooth Alignment – sometimes, removing a wisdom tooth allows the remaining teeth to be aligned optimally with orthodontic treatment. 

What Is The Process For Removing Wisdom Teeth?

The procedure to remove your wisdom teeth is similar to that for the other teeth. Your dentist will first administer local anaesthesia to make you pain-free. Next, they will use elevators to break the fibres that attach your gums and jawbone to the tooth. Afterwards, they grip the tooth with suitable forceps and apply outwards force in a figure-of-eight manner. Once the tooth has become sufficiently loose, they will pull it out. 

In some cases, wisdom teeth are partially or completely impacted. In these cases, dentists perform a surgical resection to remove the tooth. This procedure raises a soft-tissue flap and the bone surrounding the tooth is slightly removed to create a vantage point for pulling the tooth out. Your dentist will use forceps to remove the tooth. Alternatively, they may break the tooth into pieces and take them out individually. 

Is 40 Too Old To Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?

As mentioned earlier, there is a set age for removing wisdom teeth and not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. Therefore, someone in their 40s may experience wisdom tooth pain and require its removal. So, wisdom tooth removal can be performed at any age, when needed. However, if a dentist observes that a wisdom tooth may cause problems later in life, they will extract it during the patient’s young age as healing will be quicker.  

How To Recover After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?

Wisdom tooth removal is a surgical procedure. It may take a few days for complete healing to take place. There are a few things one should take care of after wisdom tooth surgery:

  • Avoid hard and sticky foods as they dislodge the blood clot and cause dry socket
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol intake for a few days after the surgery 
  • Do not take very hot food items as they may dislodge the clot 
  • Do not touch the site of surgery with your tongue 
  • Apply an icepack on the affected side of the face to minimise the swelling and discomfort
  • Take an over-the-counter pain medication to relieve pain

What Should I Eat After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Dentists recommend eating a soft diet after wisdom tooth removal. This is because a hard diet can dislodge the blood clot and interfere with the healing. Therefore, one should eat a soft diet comprising of cereals, porridge, and fruits for a few days after the surgery.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Near Me

Wisdom teeth removal is best done by an oral surgeon. Why? Because oral surgeons obtain additional training and experience in treating surgical problems related to the oral cavity. So, one can expect that wisdom tooth removal done by an oral surgeon will have fewer complications and healing will occur more quickly. 

If you are having problems with one of your wisdom teeth and would like to get it removed in Hornchurhc, your best option is Harrow Dental Practice. We offer the highest-quality dental services to our patients under one roof. So, book a free virtual consultation appointment today and let us take care of all your worries. 

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Dental Crowns

Chipped, crooked or discoloured teeth can ruin one’s smile and make chewing and speech difficult. However, this does not mean that you have to live with these tooth defects. A beautiful smile is the key to appearing attractive and friendly. An American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey showed that people who have beautiful smiles and perfect teeth are perceived as more friendly, intelligent, and approachable than those with flawed smiles. 

So, what can cosmetic dentistry do about crooked and worn-out teeth? There are many options available, but dentists commonly use dental crowns for this purpose. So, what are dental crowns, and how do they help restore one’s smile and facial aesthetics? You will learn in this blog. So, continue reading to find everything you need to know about dental crowns. 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Dental Crowns?

If you are considering dental crowns, the first thing you will think about is their benefits and drawbacks. After all, you are investing in your facial aesthetics, so you need to be sure about what you’re getting into. Here are some pros and cons of dental crowns that will help you decide whether this treatment option is right for you. 

Pros of Dental Crowns 

  • Lifelike aesthetics and ability to blend in perfectly with neighbouring teeth 
  • Can treat a variety of cosmetic and restorative tooth defects
  • Reasonable durability if looked after properly 
  • Remain fixed to the teeth 
  • Restore one’s ability to eat and speak normally 

Cons of Dental Crowns 

  • Require extensive tooth removal than bonded fillings 
  • Can get stained over time 
  • Can get detached if one bites on extremely hard or sticky foods
  • More expensive than bonded restorations 

What Is Better, A Metal Crown Cap or a Ceramic Cap?

According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a crown is a cap-shaped structure that rests on the exposed surface of damaged teeth and is used for restoring their aesthetics and structure. 

Now that we know what a crown or cap is, the next question is whether a metal or ceramic crown would be suitable for you. The answer depends on your requirements. For example, if aesthetics and appearance are your foremost priority, you should consider a ceramic crown. Why? Because ceramic crowns are made of tooth-cloured ceramic, they blend in with your teeth and become virtually indistinguishable from the existing natural teeth. Although metal crowns are very strong and durable, many patients don’t like them due to their unaesthetic metallic appearance. Besides, these days ceramic-based crowns are made of highly durable materials. So, they can be easily used in replacement of metal crowns. 

How Much Do Gold Crowns And Porcelain Crowns Cost?

A gold crown is made of gold alloys. Gold-based crowns were extensively used a few decades back. However, due to the rising cost of gold and their yellowish appearance, their use has declined. More importantly, aesthetically more pleasing ceramic-based crowns are now available and are preferred by patients. If you are considering gold crowns, they may cost around ￡600 – ￡1000 per tooth. On the other hand, if you want to get your teeth restored with porcelain crowns, they may cost around ￡600 – ￡1200. The cost of dental crowns and other cosmetic treatment options like bonding and veneers depends on various factors and also varies according to the dentist’s skill, qualifications, and location. 

What Are The Benefits Of Getting Metal-Free Dental Crowns?

Metal-free crowns offer various benefits over metal-based ones:

  • Metal crowns have a distinct metallic appearance which is not liked by many. On the other hand, metal-free crowns, such as those made of porcelain or composites, have a lifelike appearance 
  • Some patients are allergic to the metals in crowns made of metal alloys. For these patients, metal-free crowns are a better option. 

What Type Of Dental Crown Do Most Dentists Like The Most?

A dentist will give you a prosthesis or restoration that best suits your dental needs and restores your facial aesthetics. Toot-coloured porcelain crowns are commonly used these days for restoring damaged teeth. These crowns are popular among dentists and patients due to their excellent aesthetics, safety, and reasonable durability. In some cases, dentists also consider metal-ceramic crowns when superior strength is needed, especially in the back teeth that receive very high biting forces. 

Can A Porcelain Dental Crown Last A Lifetime?

Like all other dental restorations, dental crowns have a limited lifetime. For example, if you look after your porcelain crowns properly through optimal oral hygiene and diet management, you can expect them to last up to 10 years. 

How Effective Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are very effective in restoring aesthetic, restorative, and structural tooth defects. For example, if someone has chipped, stained, or crooked teeth, they can get a smile makeover with dental crowns. Besides, dental crowns also strengthen the teeth. Hence, they also restore one’s ability to chew and speak normally. 

Should Old Dental Crowns Be Replaced?

If an old dental crown is not causing any issues or affecting your facial aesthetics, there is no need to replace it. However, if you have a worn-out dental crown affecting your smile, it should be replaced with a new one. Moreover, fractured or stained crowns or veneers should also be replaced as they cannot serve their aesthetic or restorative purpose. 

If you are looking for the best cosmetic dentist in Hornchurch, your first choice should be Harrow Dental Practice, where all general and aesthetic dental procedures are offered in a comfortable and relaxing environment. So, request a consultation with us today and let us give you a healthy and lasting smile.