Have you been asked to schedule an appointment to have your wisdom teeth removed? Wisdom teeth extraction is a very common oral surgery among patients in their late teens and early 20s. Since these teeth are not vital to proper oral function, many dental professionals recommend having them removed to prevent oral complications associated with them coming in through the gums. Most patients receive wisdom tooth extraction between the ages of 17 and 25.
Why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth are extracted because they can cause oral health issues such as the need for orthodontic care, periodontal treatment, and dental restorations. Furthermore, for many patients with wisdom teeth, their removal is often performed to improve quality of life as retained wisdom teeth can create uncomfortable and reoccurring headaches along with facial discomfort and TMJ dysfunction.
How will I know when my wisdom teeth should be removed?
During oral examinations, which you should schedule on an annual basis, dental professionals will monitor the development of wisdom teeth below the surface of the gums. Monitoring the development of wisdom teeth and their eventual eruption through the gums is done by taking dental X-rays. Your dentist or oral surgeon will determine the best time to have these teeth removed based on the findings revealed during oral exams.
What kinds of issues can wisdom teeth cause in regards to my oral health?
Wisdom teeth rarely fully come through the gums in a proper, healthy position. This is because they come in later in life than adult teeth. Since adult teeth are fully developed, there is often not enough room in the mouth for wisdom teeth to erupt straightly. Without enough space to erupt, wisdom teeth can come in sideways and become impacted in gum tissue. This normally leads to only a portion of the wisdom tooth being exposed above the surface of the gums. Partial exposure of a tooth means that food can become lodged underneath gum tissue and may lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and abscessed tissue.
To prevent complications associated with wisdom tooth eruption, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled oral surgeons. Call us today at 817-552-3223 to reserve an appointment.
