Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back of your mouth. For many people, these teeth often cause problems, such as overcrowding, infection, or misalignment. When wisdom teeth create issues, dentists frequently recommend their removal. But what happens to these teeth once they are extracted? This article explores the steps dentists take before, during, and after wisdom tooth extraction and what happens to your wisdom teeth after they are removed.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Potential Problems with Wisdom Teeth
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but for many people, these molars can create dental issues. The most common reason for extraction is that the wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow properly. This can lead to a condition called impaction, where the teeth get stuck under the gum or emerge at awkward angles. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, and even damage to neighboring teeth.
When Dentists Recommend Removal
Dentists usually recommend removing wisdom teeth when they cause discomfort, risk of infection, or pose a threat to the alignment of other teeth. In some cases, wisdom teeth are removed as a preventive measure to avoid future dental problems, even if they aren’t causing issues at the time of examination.
The Extraction Process
Preparation for the Extraction
Before extracting your wisdom teeth, your dentist will take X-rays to determine their position and evaluate any risks involved. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, the procedure can be done by a general dentist or an oral surgeon. Your dentist will discuss the best course of action with you and ensure you are properly prepared.
The Extraction Procedure
Wisdom tooth extraction can be a simple or surgical procedure, depending on whether the teeth are impacted. For simple extractions, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, loosen the tooth, and gently pull it out. In the case of impacted wisdom teeth, the dentist may need to make an incision in the gum tissue and remove bone to extract the tooth.
What Happens to the Tooth?
Once the wisdom tooth is extracted, dentists usually examine it to ensure the entire tooth and any surrounding tissue have been successfully removed. The dentist may also check for infection or decay within the tooth itself.
Post-Extraction Handling of Wisdom Teeth
Dental Offices and Biohazard Waste
After extraction, wisdom teeth are often classified as medical waste. Dentists follow strict guidelines for the disposal of medical waste, including teeth. Extracted teeth that aren’t requested back by the patient are typically placed in special biohazard containers and later disposed of by companies that handle medical waste.
Returning the Teeth to Patients
In some cases, patients may ask to keep their extracted wisdom teeth as a keepsake. Dentists are generally willing to honor this request, as long as the tooth isn’t heavily decayed or diseased. If the patient wants to keep the tooth, the dentist will clean it, removing any debris or blood before returning it.
Donating Wisdom Teeth for Research
Occasionally, extracted teeth can be used for research or educational purposes. Dental schools, for example, may use wisdom teeth for teaching students about anatomy or practicing surgical techniques. In other instances, dental researchers may study extracted teeth to better understand tooth decay, enamel structure, or the effects of certain dental procedures.
Special Handling of Teeth with Restorations
Teeth with Fillings or Crowns
If your wisdom tooth has been restored with a filling or crown before extraction, the dentist will handle it slightly differently. Fillings, particularly those containing mercury (such as amalgam fillings), must be treated as hazardous waste. Teeth with these restorations cannot simply be discarded, as they require special care in disposal to avoid environmental contamination.
Teeth Containing Metal
If a wisdom tooth contains a metal filling or other type of dental hardware, the dentist may separate the metal from the tooth before disposal. Some dental practices have contracts with recycling companies that specialize in reclaiming metals like gold or silver from dental materials.
Storing Extracted Teeth
Teeth in Educational Settings
Some dental clinics or educational institutions may collect extracted wisdom teeth for use in training dental students. These teeth are often preserved in a sterilizing solution or medical-grade containers to ensure that they remain in good condition for study or practice purposes.
Teeth for Future Study or Analysis
Occasionally, wisdom teeth may be stored for scientific research or forensic purposes. Dentists or oral surgeons may also recommend storing extracted teeth that contain healthy stem cells, which could be used in future medical treatments. Tooth banking is an emerging field where teeth, particularly those containing viable pulp, are stored in case stem cell use becomes necessary.
What If I Want to Keep My Tooth?
Patient Requests for Extracted Teeth
If you want to keep your wisdom teeth after extraction, it’s essential to inform your dentist before the procedure. Many dentists are happy to oblige, as there is no significant harm in returning the tooth to the patient, provided it isn’t infected or hazardous. The tooth will be cleaned and packaged safely for you to take home.
Why Do People Keep Their Teeth?
Some people choose to keep their wisdom teeth as a personal memento. Others may wish to store them for possible future stem cell harvesting, while some individuals are simply curious to see what their extracted teeth look like.
see also: How Long Do You Bleed After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?
Potential Uses for Extracted Teeth
Tooth Jewelry
In recent years, it has become a trend for people to transform their extracted wisdom teeth into custom jewelry pieces. Some people have their teeth plated in metal or encased in resin to create unique necklaces or rings.
Teeth in Art Projects
For those with a creative flair, wisdom teeth have even been used in artistic projects. Some individuals choose to incorporate their teeth into sculptures or other forms of visual art.
How Are Extracted Teeth Disposed of Safely?
Regulations for Disposal
Dentists and oral surgeons must adhere to strict regulations when disposing of extracted teeth. The teeth must be properly disinfected and placed in biohazard containers for safe disposal. This ensures that no harmful pathogens or chemicals are released into the environment.
Teeth with Infectious Diseases
If the tooth is infected or poses a biological hazard, it will be handled more carefully. Special protocols are in place to sterilize or incinerate these teeth, preventing the spread of disease.
Conclusion
After your wisdom teeth are removed, they don’t just disappear. Dentists follow specific protocols for handling, cleaning, and disposing of extracted teeth to ensure patient safety and environmental responsibility. While most wisdom teeth are treated as medical waste, there are several interesting pathways your extracted tooth can take — from being returned to you as a keepsake to becoming part of dental research. Regardless of what happens to your wisdom teeth after extraction, understanding the process can give you peace of mind and make the experience less of a mystery.
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