The arrival of wisdom teeth, or third molars, can be a defining moment for many individuals. Normally erupting between the ages of 17 and 21, these latecomers to your dental landscape are often referred to as "wisdom teeth" due to their emergence during the period of life known as the "Age of Wisdom."
While some people's wisdom teeth coexist peacefully with the rest of their teeth, others may experience problems that require extraction. For young adults, pain from problematic wisdom teeth is often the primary reason they seek urgent dental care.
With limited space available in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are more prone to encountering issues. While our prehistoric ancestors may have had sufficiently large jaws to accommodate these teeth, human jaws have become smaller over time. This evolutionary change is believed to be a result of our softer diets and larger brains.
An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when it remains submerged under gum tissue or bone and is unable to emerge into its proper position. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions are classified in various ways. If a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue, it's known as a soft tissue impaction. When a wisdom tooth remains partially or fully obstructed by bone, it's referred to as a bony impaction.
In addition to the high frequency of wisdom tooth impactions and poor alignment, keeping these teeth clean and free from cavities and gum disease is challenging. As they are situated far back in the mouth, these teeth can be difficult to reach and maintain properly. Our dental office may recommend removing third molars as a preventative measure to help mitigate the risk of oral health issues, preserving the overall well-being of your gums and neighboring teeth. By eliminating the need to navigate hard-to-reach areas, maintaining good oral hygiene becomes simpler and healthier.
In rare cases, wisdom teeth may contribute to the formation of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth. These complications can cause significant damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
At our dental practice, we closely monitor the development, location, and health of unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth during each routine checkup visit. For teens and adults of all ages, we often recommend removing potentially problematic wisdom teeth before a painful or complex emergency arises. We also provide prompt treatment and recommend extractions as necessary if symptoms and problems develop.
If you're experiencing discomfort from your third molars or have concerns about their development, don't hesitate to contact us at our dental office. Our dedicated staff is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and maintain a beautiful smile.
