A wisdom tooth is an extra set of molars that erupt behind your other teeth from 17-25. These teeth usually come in crooked or misaligned and may require extraction to prevent problems with gum disease or crowding of your existing teeth. These teeth should be removed before problems develop. In some cases, such as when a tooth comes in correctly aligned, an orthodontist may recommend keeping it because removing it could negatively affect your bite. At First Smile Family Dental, extraction may also be recommended if your mouth is not large enough to accommodate all of your teeth or if there is not enough space for your wisdom teeth to erupt correctly.
When Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth are trapped beneath the gum line or jawbone and cannot fully erupt. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. In such cases, wisdom teeth removal is often recommended to prevent further complications.
Crowding or Misalignment
If there is not enough space in the jaw to accommodate the wisdom teeth, they may become crowded or push against adjacent teeth, causing misalignment or shifting of the teeth. Wisdom teeth removal may be recommended to prevent the overcrowding of teeth and maintain proper alignment.
Tooth Decay or Gum Disease
Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Removal may be recommended to preserve oral health if the wisdom teeth are causing or contributing to dental problems.
The Procedure for Wisdom Teeth Removal
The primary reason for wisdom teeth removal is to address potential problems associated with the eruption and presence of these teeth. Many people experience issues with their wisdom teeth, such as impaction, overcrowding, misalignment, or an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to difficulty cleaning the area. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. Sometimes, sedation or general anesthesia may be used to ensure the patient's comfort and relaxation during the procedure. The dentist or oral surgeon incurs the gum tissue to access the wisdom tooth or teeth. The tooth may need to be divided into smaller pieces for easier removal. Sometimes, a small amount of bone may need to be removed to extract the tooth thoroughly. Once the wisdom tooth or teeth are removed, the surgical site is carefully cleaned, and stitches may be placed to close the incision.
If you are considering wisdom tooth extraction, contact First Smile Family Dental at 32717 1st Ave S., Suite 9, Federal Way, WA 98003, or call (253) 785-7323 to schedule a consultation for an examination. We will examine your wisdom teeth to check for signs of impaction or other oral health issues and recommend the best way forward for your treatment.