The arrival of wisdom teeth, or third molars, can be a significant milestone in your dental journey. These teeth typically emerge through the gums at the back of your mouth between ages 17 and 25, coinciding with the transition from adolescence to adulthood—a period often referred to as the "Age of Wisdom." Due to this timing, these latecomers have earned the nickname "wisdom teeth."
With limited space in the back of your mouth, wisdom teeth are more prone to problems. While our ancient ancestors may have had larger jaws to accommodate these teeth, human jaws have become smaller over time. This evolutionary change is attributed to our softer diets and larger brains. Researchers believe that this shift has led to a decrease in the size of the jawbone, making it harder for wisdom teeth to find sufficient space to emerge properly.
An impacted tooth occurs when it remains submerged beneath gum tissue or bone, unable to erupt into its proper position. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions are classified in several ways. A soft tissue impaction happens when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue, while a bony impaction occurs when a tooth is partially or fully obstructed by bone.
In addition to the high frequency of wisdom tooth impactions and poor alignment, keeping these teeth clean and free of cavities and gum disease can be challenging. Due to their positioning at the back of your mouth, these teeth are particularly susceptible to bacterial accumulation, dental decay, and infection. Our office may recommend extracting third molars to help prevent these oral health issues, preserving the overall well-being of your gums and adjacent teeth. Extracting third molars eliminates the need for navigating hard-to-reach areas, making it easier and healthier to maintain a consistent 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 significant damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
We will monitor the development, positioning, and health of unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth at every dental checkup visit. In teens and adults of all ages, we often recommend extracting potentially problematic wisdom teeth before a painful or complicated emergency arises. We also provide prompt treatment and recommend extractions as needed if symptoms and issues develop.
At Melinda Marino, DDS Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that making decisions about your dental health can be challenging. However, our dedicated staff is here to help guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the best possible care. When it comes to wisdom teeth extractions, there are several compelling reasons why you should consider this procedure:
If you're experiencing any issues related to your wisdom teeth or would like more information about the extraction process, don't hesitate to reach out to our office. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you with your dental needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can help improve your oral health.
