Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can make their appearance between the ages of 17 and 21. As they emerge towards the back of your mouth, you might wonder whether or not they're going to cause any issues. After all, our prehistoric ancestors had larger jaws that could easily accommodate these latecomers. But in modern times, our human jaw has evolved to be smaller due to changes in diet and brain size.
While some people might have no problems with their wisdom teeth, others can experience issues such as pain, infection, cysts, tumors, damage to adjacent teeth, gum disease, or extensive tooth decay. This is often because our smaller jaws have limited space for the third molars, increasing the likelihood of these problems.
If a wisdom tooth remains partially or fully submerged under gum tissue or bone and is unable to erupt into position, it's considered impacted. Depending on the type of impaction, we may classify them differently:
Due to their location in the back of your mouth, wisdom teeth are difficult to keep clean. This makes them more susceptible to bacterial accumulation, dental disease, and infection. To help mitigate these risks, our office may recommend extracting third molars.
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can contribute to the formation of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth. These problems could lead to extensive damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth. Our office will closely monitor the development, location, and health of your unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth during regular checkups.
At our practice, we often recommend extractions for potentially problematic wisdom teeth before a painful or complex emergency arises. We also provide prompt treatment and recommend extractions as needed if symptoms and problems develop.
When you visit our office, our dedicated staff will work with you to ensure your comfort and understanding throughout the entire process. Our priority is to help you maintain optimal oral health, so you can continue enjoying a healthy, beautiful smile.
If you're experiencing pain or other issues related to your wisdom teeth, don't hesitate to reach out. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate these challenges and keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Our goal is to help every patient experience the benefits of good oral health and a beautiful smile. We value the trust you have placed in our office and strive to provide solutions that meet your dental needs and expectations of care.
