Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many individuals undergo at some point in their lives. As with any medical procedure, there are often misconceptions and myths surrounding the process.
One prevalent myth is that the dentist or oral surgeon must break your jaw to remove your wisdom teeth.
In this article, we will explore the truth behind this common misconception and shed light on what actually happens during the wisdom teeth removal procedure.
Quick Answer: Do They Break Your Jaw to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
No, your jaw is not broken during wisdom teeth removal!
This common dental procedure involves removing the third molars (wisdom teeth) due to issues like impaction, crowding, or misalignment. It typically involves anesthesia, making an incision in the gum to expose the tooth, removing the tooth (sometimes in smaller pieces), and suturing the incision.
The myth about breaking the jaw likely stems from the fact that, during the removal of impacted wisdom teeth, a small amount of jawbone is often surgically removed in order to create space for the safe removal of the tooth.
Despite the misunderstandings, modern dental techniques ensure the procedure is straightforward and safe, with almost zero risk of breaking or dislocating the jawbone. While there are risks like infection or nerve damage, these are minimal and can be further reduced by following post-operative care instructions from your dentist or oral surgeon.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Before delving into the removal process, it is essential to understand what wisdom teeth are and why they can cause complications.
“Wisdom teeth,” also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25, a stage of life often referred to as the "age of wisdom."
Wisdom teeth are vestigial remnants from our ancestors who needed these extra molars to chew food effectively.
However, due to evolutionary changes and the reduced size of the human jaw over time, these additional teeth often become problematic.
One interesting fact about wisdom teeth is that not everyone develops them. Some individuals may have one or two wisdom teeth, while others may have none at all. The presence or absence of wisdom teeth can be influenced by genetics and evolutionary factors.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
The main issue with wisdom teeth is that there is often inadequate space in the mouth to accommodate them. This can lead to various complications, such as impaction, crowding, and misalignment of the existing teeth. In such cases, wisdom teeth removal becomes necessary to maintain oral health and prevent further complications.
Impacted wisdom teeth, which are unable to fully emerge from the gums, can cause pain, swelling, and infection. If left untreated, these impacted teeth can also damage adjacent teeth and even affect the alignment of the jaw.
Another common problem associated with wisdom teeth is overcrowding. When there is not enough space in the mouth for these additional teeth, they can crowd the existing teeth, causing them to trap food or even shift and become misaligned. This can lead to bite problems, difficulty in cleaning the teeth properly, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Furthermore, wisdom teeth can be challenging to clean due to their location at the back of the mouth. Their position makes it difficult to reach them with a toothbrush and floss, increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup and cavities.
It is important to note that not all wisdom teeth require removal. In some cases, if the wisdom teeth are healthy, properly aligned, and do not cause any issues, they can be left in place. However, regular monitoring and dental check-ups are necessary to ensure their ongoing health.
Ultimately, understanding the nature of wisdom teeth and the potential complications they can cause is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Wisdom teeth removal may be necessary in cases of impaction, crowding, and misalignment, but not all wisdom teeth require extraction.
The Process of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Now that we have a clear understanding of what wisdom teeth are and why they can cause problems, let us address the actual procedure for their removal.
Pre-Surgery Consultation and Examination
Prior to the surgery, the first step involves a thorough consultation and examination by a dentist or oral surgeon. During this visit, a medical professional will assess the positioning and condition of your wisdom teeth through X-rays or other imaging techniques.
This evaluation allows them to determine the best course of action for your specific case.
The Actual Surgery: Step by Step
During the wisdom teeth removal surgery, the patient is usually placed under anesthesia to ensure a painless procedure. The type of anesthesia used may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the individual's comfort.
Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon begins by making an incision in the gum tissue to expose the wisdom tooth and surrounding bone if necessary.
In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into smaller pieces for easier extraction.
The surgeon then carefully removes the tooth, ensuring that all remnants are extracted to avoid any future complications.
Finally, the incision is sutured, and the healing process begins.
Debunking the Myth: Breaking the Jaw
One enduring myth surrounding wisdom teeth removal is the notion that the jaw must be broken to complete the procedure. This misconception likely stems from cases where impacted wisdom teeth are closely situated to the jawbone and require a slight surgical revision of the surrounding bone prior to extraction.
However, breaking the jaw is an extremely rare occurrence during a routine wisdom teeth removal. The best studies we have suggest that the rate of jaw fracture during a lower wisdom tooth extraction is 0.0034% to 0.075%.
Where Did the Myth Come From?
The myth of jaw breaking during wisdom teeth extraction likely arose due to misunderstandings or miscommunications between patients and healthcare professionals.
Exaggerated stories and anecdotes may have perpetuated the idea that this invasive technique is commonplace, leading to unnecessary fear and anxiety for those considering the procedure.
The Truth About Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The truth is that modern dentistry has made tremendous advancements, and the removal of wisdom teeth is a safe and predictable procedure. The procedure is generally straightforward and involves carefully extracting the tooth and its roots from the socket.
With the use of specialized tools and techniques, oral surgeons can safely complete the removal with almost no risk of jaw fracture or dislocation.
Risks and Complications of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Although rarely involving jaw fractures, like any surgical procedure, wisdom teeth extraction carries some risks and potential complications.
Common Risks Associated with the Procedure
There are several risks associated with wisdom teeth removal, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and dry socket formation.
However, it is important to note that these risks are relatively uncommon and can be minimized with proper care and post-surgery instructions provided by your dental professional.
How to Minimize Potential Complications
To reduce the risk of complications after wisdom teeth removal, follow post-operative instructions carefully. This typically includes taking prescribed medications, maintaining good oral hygiene, eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments as recommended by your dentist or oral surgeon.
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
Once the wisdom teeth extraction is complete, proper care and attention are crucial to ensure a smooth recovery.
What to Expect After the Surgery
After the surgery, you can expect some swelling, discomfort, and mild bruising. These symptoms are normal and should subside within a few days to a week.
Applying ice packs to the affected area and taking prescribed pain medications can help alleviate any post-operative pain and swelling. Additionally, sticking to a soft diet and avoiding strenuous physical activities will allow the healing process to progress smoothly.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
During the recovery period, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene by gently rinsing your mouth with saltwater and avoiding vigorous brushing around the surgical site. It is also crucial to follow all instructions provided by your dental professional, as every individual's healing process may vary slightly.
Should you experience any complications or prolonged discomfort, it is recommended to consult your dentist or oral surgeon promptly for guidance.
Final Thoughts
There is no truth to the myth that breaking a jaw is a standard procedure during wisdom teeth removal. While the extraction of wisdom teeth can entail potential risks and complications, the vast majority of cases do not involve any complications.
Understanding the process, seeking proper medical advice, and adhering to post-operative care instructions will help ensure a smooth and successful wisdom teeth removal experience.
FAQs
Do they break your jaw during wisdom teeth removal?
No, breaking the jaw is not a part of the wisdom teeth removal process. The procedure involves removing the teeth themselves, but the jawbone is not broken. This is a common misconception about wisdom teeth extraction.
Do doctors dislocate your jaw when removing wisdom teeth?
No, doctors do not dislocate your jaw to remove wisdom teeth. While the mouth is opened widely during the procedure, and there might be some manipulation of the jaw to access the teeth, it does not involve dislocating the jaw.
Do they have to cut bone to remove wisdom teeth?
In some cases, a small amount of bone may need to be removed to extract a wisdom tooth, especially if the tooth is impacted (not fully emerged from the gum) or is in a difficult position. This is done carefully to minimize any impact on surrounding structures.
Do they drill into your jaw for wisdom teeth?
Drilling into the jawbone might be necessary in some complex cases of wisdom teeth removal, particularly if the tooth is impacted within the jawbone. However, this is done using precise and controlled techniques to ensure minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.