What Are Wisdom Teeth, and How Can They Be Managed or Removed?

Question

I’ve recently started feeling some pain in the back of my mouth, and my dentist mentioned that my wisdom teeth may need to be removed. Now I’m wondering—what exactly are wisdom teeth, and how can they be managed or removed?

From what I understand, wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically come in during the late teens or early twenties. But why do they often cause problems—do they grow in crooked, cause overcrowding, or lead to infections? How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed, and what are the signs of complications?

I also read that removing wisdom teeth can prevent further dental issues, but is it necessary for everyone? What are the risks and benefits of getting them extracted, and how long does recovery usually take?

Since I prefer natural healing methods, I looked into Ayurveda’s approach to managing wisdom teeth issues. Are there natural remedies, herbal treatments, or dietary habits that can help manage pain or prevent infection while waiting for extraction? I found that clove oil and salt water rinses are commonly recommended—do these actually help in alleviating wisdom teeth pain?

For those who have had wisdom teeth removed, what was your experience like? Did you have any complications or a smooth recovery? I’d love to hear real insights on dealing with wisdom teeth.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually emerge in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth can often cause problems because there's not enough space in the mouth to accommodate them, leading to overcrowding, misalignment, or impaction. They can also become infected if they don't fully emerge, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Common signs that wisdom teeth may need to be removed include pain, swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth. However, not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed—if they're not causing issues, some people can keep them. The decision to remove wisdom teeth depends on the risk of future problems like infection or damage to nearby teeth. Recovery from extraction generally takes a few days to a week, with some swelling and discomfort, but complications like dry socket or infection are possible. For natural pain relief, clove oil and salt water rinses are often recommended in Ayurveda. Clove oil has analgesic properties that can numb pain, while salt water helps reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Many people find the extraction process manageable with good aftercare, but personal experiences vary. If you’ve had wisdom teeth removed, it’d be helpful to hear how your recovery went and any tips you might have for easing discomfort.

What Are Wisdom Teeth, and How Can They Be Managed or Removed? - #15939

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions