Discovering the Advantages of Wisdom Teeth Removal

The emergence of wisdom teeth, or third molars, can be a significant moment in one's dental journey. Generally appearing between ages 17 and 21, these teeth often emerge at the back of the mouth. Due to their late arrival during the "Age of Wisdom," they are commonly referred to as "wisdom teeth."

While some individuals may experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may encounter problems that require extraction. For young adults, pain from emerging wisdom teeth is often the primary reason for seeking urgent dental care.

Common Symptoms of Problematic Wisdom Teeth Include:

• Discomfort
• Infection
• Cysts
• Tumors
• Damage to adjacent teeth
• Gum disease
• Severe tooth decay

With limited space in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are more prone to problems. Although our ancient ancestors may have had larger jaws to accommodate these teeth, human jaws have become smaller over time. This change is believed to be a result of our softer diets and larger brains.

An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when it remains submerged under gum tissue or bone and cannot erupt into the proper position. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions are classified in various ways. A soft tissue impaction happens when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue. If a wisdom tooth is partially or fully obstructed by bone, it's known as a bony impaction.

Besides the frequency of impacted wisdom teeth and poor alignment, maintaining proper oral hygiene for these teeth can be challenging. Due to their position at the back of the mouth, they are particularly susceptible to bacterial buildup, dental disease, and infection. Our office may recommend extracting third molars to help prevent these issues, preserving the overall health of your gums and neighboring teeth. Removing impacted wisdom teeth eliminates the need for navigating hard-to-reach areas, making it easier to maintain a better oral hygiene routine.

In rare cases, wisdom teeth may contribute to the formation of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth. These problems can cause extensive damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

At our dental practice, we closely monitor the development, location, and health of unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth during every checkup visit. For teens and adults of all ages, we often recommend extracting potentially problematic wisdom teeth before a painful or complex emergency arises. We also provide prompt treatment and recommend extractions as indicated if symptoms and problems develop.

To learn more about the importance of regular dental checkups for maintaining optimal oral health, visit our website at Stratford Family Dental.