Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom Teeth
Patients may be told by their dentist that they need to have their wisdom teeth extracted and refer the patient to an oral surgeon for the procedure. The wisdom teeth are a third set of molars which are located at the back corners of the mouth. They are also the last four of the permanent adult teeth to erupt. It is possible for some patients to have one or more impacted wisdom teeth which do not erupt in the mouth.
Wisdom Teeth Eruption
For most patients, their permanent teeth erupt before they turn 13. The wisdom teeth are the exception to this rule as these teeth typically erupt when patients are in their late teenage years or early twenties. Below are common signs that the wisdom teeth are beginning to come in:
- Tenderness of the jaw and pain in the face
- Redness or swelling of the gums, specifically at the back corners of the mouth
- White spots behind the last molars in the back of the mouth
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
In some cases, the wisdom teeth are harmless but can cause various issues or complications. Over time, the wisdom teeth can cause issues such as pain, infection, and even damage to adjacent teeth in the mouth. In order to avoid these complications, the dentist may suggest that the wisdom teeth need to be extracted. If the wisdom teeth are partially or fully impacted, causing crowding, or have decay, the dentist often suggests that they should be extracted or removed.
Impaction
Because of the location of the teeth in the back of the mouth, it is common for the wisdom teeth to erupt incorrectly. They may be trapped in the jawbone or gums or even erupt at the wrong angle. This can cause various complications and discomfort.
Overcrowding
Some patients do not have room for the eruption of additional teeth. The jaw may not have the room needed to accommodate the additional set of molars. This can result in the wisdom teeth coming in at the wrong angle or pressing against the existing teeth which can cause shifting or damage.
Other Issues
Because of the location of the wisdom teeth in the back of the mouth, it can be difficult to properly clean the teeth with routine brushing and flossing. This can allow food and debris to get trapped. Over time, this build up can result in plaque, leading to possible gum disease and decay. This can also result in the development of cavities. The location of the wisdom teeth also makes it difficult for the dentist to access the wisdom teeth if it requires treatment. In order to prevent further damage to the teeth and gums, extracting the tooth may be the best option. The failure to remove the wisdom teeth may result in serious, long-term issues such as infection or even tooth loss.
Extraction
In cases where the wisdom teeth are not causing any issues, they can often remain in the mouth and extraction is not required. Fortunately, patients only have one set of wisdom teeth which will not regrow after they are removed.
Contact the office today if you are concerned with the eruption of your wisdom teeth. The dentist can perform an examination and obtain x-rays to determine if your wisdom teeth need to be extracted. Our team can answer any questions you have regarding the procedure and expectations.