Wisdom Teeth
* No Copyright Infringement Is Intended
Most people have been told to get their wisdom teeth taken out, and often times in certain cultures, it almost seems like it is a right of passage into adulthood! But why are most people advised to get their wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually do not push through the gums until people are in their late teens, twenties or even older. As such, wisdom teeth are usually the last teeth to develop and push through the gums. Most people have 4 wisdom teeth. However, some people have none.
In many people, there is not enough space for the teeth to come through easily. This results in the tooth becoming wedged in or impacted. Some impacted wisdom teeth remain in place and cause no problem. However, other wisdom teeth may cause severe problems.
Some of these problems included the irritation of gums, a food trap between teeth leading to decay, infections, pushing of nearby teeth, misaligned bite,
resorption cavities amongst many more.
Often times, one or more wisdom teeth will cause problems and must be removed. When symptoms start to show, your dentist will inspect your mouth, teeth and jaw. Your dentist will also likely take a panoramic xray. Through the use of xrays and visual observation, your dentist will go through his/her diagnosis with you and make a recommendation for treatment.
If you have any questions about the removal of wisdom teeth, or would like to inquire if you would need them removed, do give our office a call to schedule an appointment. As always, it is best to let a dentist take a look at your teeth as everyone is different. Some people require wisdom teeth extractions and others don't!
