Wisdom Teeth: The Basics

Wisdom teeth are usually referred as the third set of molar teeth. They usually appear between the ages of 16 to 25 years. Most adults have four wisdom teeth. It is possible to have more than four and this is called supernumerary teeth. A condition called hypodontia refers to when there is less growth of wisdom teeth. It was generally accepted before that wisdom teeth should not be disturbed until they fully emerge from the gum line. This is no longer practiced at present time. The dental professionals and the general public clearly understood the ongoing problems associated with erupted and impacted wisdom teeth. As early as possible, it is advised to deal with your wisdom teeth and as soon as the roots are completely formed.

In extracting wisdom teeth, the risks associated with it increases with age. Several problems such as infection, swelling, pain or other medical conditions may occur before seeking treatment may cause more severe problem. It is advisable to have your teeth extracted before the age of thirty-five because there is a tendency of your teeth to fuse to the jawbone. During this time, the extraction can threaten the integrity of the jawbones.

Dental specialists and oral surgeons use modern X-ray images to assess properly the situation before the initiation of a corrective treatment. All the underlying structures of the teeth will be clearly visible on an X-ray film. Any potential complications will be discussed to the patient after proper assessment.

What is the best age to have your wisdom teeth extracted?

It is best to have the wisdom teeth extracted before they are fully developed if there is no enough room in your mouth for the teeth to erupt in proper position. Some patients may have their wisdom teeth extracted as early as 13 or 14; others may be as late as 17 or 18 years of age. Undeniably, younger patients have faster healing process and lesser complications as compared to older patients.

Why is it necessary to extract wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth may cause severe pain and suffering to an individual together with the pressing problem of overcrowded teeth. The growth of wisdom tooth may cause the other teeth to shift into different direction that will result in bite irregularity. Inflamed gum tissue, sinus problems, or infection may also be encountered. This can lead to a more serious problem like gum tissue inflammation, sinus problems, or infection. Whether you have any symptoms or not, X-ray films will show if you have an ongoing tooth infection or your teeth are impacted which means that there is no room for them to erupt through the gums.

Extensive surgical skill is required in extracting wisdom teeth especially for teeth that are unerupted. It is a requirement to see a qualified and competent dental professional or oral surgeon who has the proper equipment and training to meet the needs of the patient. For people who has phobia with dental procedures, intravenous (IV) sedation is often recommended. The sedation methods will be provided by Albuquerque sedation dentist for a possible “no pain” dental experience. The IV sedation method offers a very safe, predictable, pain free and memory free dental experience for patients having their wisdom teeth extracted. This is the reason why many patients prefer to be sedated during their surgery. It is possible to have all the required wisdom teeth extracted during a single visit.

It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain or discomfort after the extraction. This resolves easily and the pain usually responds to pain medications. It is very important to follow all the instructions following the minor surgery to prevent the occurrence of possible complications.