What is an obstructed wisdom tooth

  Wisdom teeth are also known as end teeth or third molars. It is the last tooth to erupt in the permanent dentition, counting backwards from the central incisor on one side to the eighth tooth. It usually erupts around the age of 16-35 years. It is mainly named because it does not erupt properly or erupts in the wrong position.  The most common type of obstructed wisdom tooth is the one that does not erupt completely or only partially erupts. As the wisdom tooth is not properly cleaned at the end, there is an accumulation of food debris in the blind pocket which causes inflammation leading to pericoronitis. Pericoronitis is mainly characterized by recurrent swelling and pain of the wisdom tooth, which affects chewing. The most effective treatment for pericoronitis is localized pericoronal irrigation of the wisdom tooth. Because of the large variability of wisdom teeth, including the crown and roots, it is important to take dental radiographs to check the number and curvature of the roots before wisdom teeth are removed. If the tooth is not in the right position after anti-inflammation, it needs to be extracted. If the tooth is in the right position, the wisdom tooth on the same side of the opposite jaw also has the function of occlusion, then there is a possibility of retaining it. There is also a case that the wisdom tooth is inclined to grow and cause the decay of the second molar. In this case, it is also necessary to remove the obstructed wisdom teeth.  Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to maintain oral hygiene when wisdom teeth grow, and to eat a light diet and avoid spicy and stimulating food.