The arrival of wisdom teeth, or third molars, can mark a significant milestone in an individual's dental journey. Typically emerging during late adolescence between ages 17 and 21, these teeth often emerge at the back of the mouth when one is transitioning into adulthood—a period historically known as the "Age of Wisdom," hence their name. However, while some may coexist peacefully with the rest of your teeth, others can cause problems that require extraction.
Due to the limited space in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are more prone to issues. While our ancestors may have had larger jaws to accommodate these teeth, human jaws have become smaller over time due to softer diets and larger brains. Researchers believe this evolutionary change is responsible for the increased frequency of impactions and poor alignment among third molars.
An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when it remains submerged under gum tissue or bone, unable to erupt fully. Depending on the amount and type of overlying tissue, impactions can be classified in several ways. A soft tissue impaction happens when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue, while a bony impaction occurs when the tooth is partially or completely obstructed by bone.
In addition to the high likelihood of impaction and misalignment, maintaining proper oral hygiene for third molars can be challenging. As they are located far back in the mouth, these teeth are particularly susceptible to bacterial buildup, dental diseases, and infections. To help prevent these issues and preserve your overall oral health, our office may recommend extracting third molars. Removing these teeth eliminates the need for navigating hard-to-reach areas, making it easier to maintain a more effective oral hygiene routine.
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can contribute to the formation of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth. These problems can cause significant damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
Our office will closely monitor the development, positioning, and health of unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth during every dental checkup visit. For teens and adults of all ages, we often recommend extracting potentially problematic third molars before a painful or complex emergency arises. We also provide prompt treatment and suggest extractions if symptoms or problems develop.
At SmilePro Dental Care, our dedicated staff is always ready to assist you with any dental needs, including the removal of troublesome wisdom teeth. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and happy smile!
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