wisdom teeth complications

Is Wisdom Teeth Extraction Putting Patients at Risk of Temporomandibular Disorders

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An interesting article titled “The relationship between third molar extractions and TMD: Or is there one?” written by Dennis Marangos appears in Cranio: the Journal of Craniomandibular and Sleep Practice (Volume 41, Issue 4, 2023). The author was prompted to write the article based on patients coming in saying they did not have jaw pain before my wisdom teeth were extracted but, now have jaw pain and clicking. As a result the author did a literature review to examine the possible relationship. One of the most common surgeries in the 20th century is wisdom teeth surgery. Experts have suggested that our face and jaw structure has become smaller due to the introduction of processed foods over generations. This smaller jaw size means underdeveloped cranial structures and that wisdom teeth just do not fit. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a term used … Read more

A Breakthrough in Nerve Repair: Implications for Wisdom Teeth Removal

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Understanding the Risks of Wisdom Teeth Removal Wisdom teeth removal can sometimes lead to complications, including nerve injuries. The nerves that control sensation and movement in the face pass near the wisdom teeth, and damage to these nerves can result in numbness, tingling, or pain. Traditional Approaches and Their Limitations While traditional methods for repairing nerve injuries have improved over time, they can still be invasive and may not always achieve complete nerve function. Autografts, where a nerve from another part of the body is used to replace the damaged nerve, are often the standard of care but can have limitations. A Promising New Approach Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine have made significant progress in developing a novel technique for nerve repair using stem cells derived from gum tissue. This groundbreaking approach offers potential benefits … Read more

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Leads to Rare Bacterial Infection: A Case Study

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An interesting case is discussed in the article “Bilateral Jaw Mycobacterium Abscessus Mimicking Actinomycosis: A Postoperative Complication of Wisdom Teeth Extraction” written by Michael Johanis and et. al. Published, June 13, 2024. The article discusses how nontuberculous mycobacteria infections has surged over recent decades. They report a case of a 22-year-old healthy female who had with bilateral mandibular nodules after wisdom teeth extraction. The young woman experienced a scare after getting her wisdom teeth removed. While doctors first suspected a common infection called actinomycosis, cultures revealed a Mycobacterium abscessus infection susceptible to macrolides. This bacteria is becoming more prevalent and can be difficult to diagnose because it mimics other infections, like actinomycosis. This can lead to delays in getting the right treatment.   The key to getting the right treatment is early and accurate diagnosis, which is often achieved through culture testing. This helps … Read more

New Hope for Faster Jaw Healing After Tooth Extractions: Ozone Therapy Shows Promise

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Getting a tooth pulled is never fun, and for some people, it carries the risk of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). This is when the jawbone doesn’t heal properly after an extraction. MRONJ is primarily associated with the use of bone-modifying agents with antiresorptive and/or antiangiogenic activities, which are administered to cancer and osteometabolic patients  Researchers are looking for ways to improve healing and reduce MRONJ risk. A new study published in Oral Diseases titled “Reduction of MRONJ risk after exodontia by virtue of ozone infiltration: A randomized clinical trial” written by Olga Di Fede and published on May 29, 2024, explores a promising approach: using a gaseous oxygen-ozone mixture after a tooth extraction. Study shows ozone therapy speeds up healing The study involved 117 patients (27 male and 90 female) at risk of MRONJ. Half received standard care … Read more

Hydrocortisone Shows Promise in Reducing Pain and Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Removal

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An interesting article titled “Efficacy of Hydrocortisone, Povidone-Iodine, and Normal Saline as an Irrigating Solution During Surgical Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars: A Randomized Controlled Trial” written by Faheem Ahmed and et. al. appears in Cureus published February 01, 2024. The study sought to compare the effects of three irrigating solutions, hydrocortisone, povidone-iodine, and normal saline, on pain, trismus, and edema following removal of impacted lower wisdom teeth. Wisdom tooth removal, also known as the surgical removal of impacted third molars, is a common dental procedure, often accompanied by pain, swelling (edema), and difficulty opening the mouth (trismus). Researchers have been looking for ways to alleviate these post-surgical concers. The study metnioned in this article compared the effectiveness of three irrigation solutions used during surgery. The study involved 105 patients between the ages of 18 and 40 who needed … Read more