So, why do they call them wisdom teeth? They don't make us smarter, that's for damn sure. WebMD has this to say about Wisdom Teeth:
"Wisdom teeth can be entrapped completely within the soft tissue and/or the jawbone or only partially break through or erupt through the gum. Teeth that remain partially or completely entrapped within the soft tissue and /or the jawbone are termed "impacted." Wisdom teeth that only partially erupt allows foran opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection, which results in pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, and general illness. Partially erupted teeth are also more prone to tooth decay and gum disease because their hard-to-reach location and awkward positioning makes brushing and flossing difficult."
Yeah; I'm in a lot of pain today.
Several times over the last few years, my wisdom teeth shift, decide they want to poke out a little more, and just in general cause havok in my mouth. The result is swelling, redness, tenderness, and a whole lot of pain . . . as well as several days of eating soft foods only. My lower right started acting up late Sunday, and by midday yesterday my mouth was so sore I didn't want to eat anything. Good for my diet, but not so great for me.
Guess it's time to see a dentist, but I haven't been to one since I was 12, and I have a great fear of messy and painful tooth extractions (as I suppose most people do). Better--ahem--bite the bullet, and just go.
What about you, dear readers? Any happy dentist stories to tell me? Are there any in the world?
3 comments:
I only have three wisdom teeth and none are fully through...I am almost 32. Not sure what THAT'S all about but I will do anything to not have them taken. I had four teeth pulled when I was 8 and the dentist was Satan. Years later I found a REALLY great dentist who gifted me with a crown. He retired though and I haven't been in probably 10 years. Yucky!
My daughter just had her wisdom teeth removed a few weeks ago. She is fine now. I'm glad that is all behind her.
I am deathly afraid of the dentist as well! I only go every year or two for a cleaning and longer if I have a toothache or sensitive tooth. Because I know I'll need work done...which means shots, drilling and sounds that send me through the roof.
The only happy dentist story I have, is that My Dear Dentist gives me halcion for my visits. It's a happy little pill that sort of sedates you and also has a memory-eraser mixed in:) Which is all fine and good, except you can't drive or work the whole day. Oh well, I am okay with the collateral damage as long as I don't remember why I am home in the first place:)
Best Wishes to you!
Post a Comment