Do You Need to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled?
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, but many people are still unsure about when to remove wisdom teeth or why they may need it. With so many questions and concerns surrounding this topic, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But nearby teeth could be damaged if wisdom teeth aren’t removed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons around one’s teens or early 20s.
Our Loveland, CO dentists are here to help. We’ll explain the signs that point to needing to get your wisdom teeth removed. If you have any questions, or you’re looking to schedule a consultation, contact our dental office today by calling (970) 669-3918.
Wisdom Teeth Growth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, between the ages of 17 and 21. In some cases, wisdom teeth may not grow properly, leading to a condition known as impaction which can damage other teeth.
However, not all wisdom teeth need to be removed in oral surgery. Some people have healthy wisdom teeth that grow properly and don’t cause any issues. In these cases, wisdom teeth management may involve regular dental check-ups and diligent oral hygiene practices.
Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Tooth impaction occurs when a tooth doesn’t fully emerge from the gums. Wisdom teeth, located at the back of your mouth, can become impacted at different angles:
- Vertical impaction: The tooth grows straight down but is blocked by the jawbone.
- Horizontal impaction: The tooth grows horizontally, often towards another tooth.
- Distal impaction: The tooth grows towards the back of the mouth.
- Mesial impaction: The tooth grows towards the front of the mouth.
Given the various angles and levels of impaction, consulting with an experienced dentist or oral surgeon for an assessment of your wisdom teeth is key to determining the appropriate course of action for your specific case.
Signs Indicating the Need for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the back of your mouth. While some people experience no issues with wisdom teeth, others may need them removed. Here are some signs that you may need to get your wisdom teeth removed:
- Severe pain in the back of your mouth
- Swollen or tender gums
- Jaw pain
- Bad breath
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- infection
- Cysts or tumors around the wisdom teeth
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Sinus problems
Factors Affecting the Decision to Remove Wisdom Teeth
Some factors that may determine you need your wisdom teeth removed include:
- Age: Dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal at a younger age — typically between 18 and 24 — to avoid complications that may arise from the bone and tooth roots being fully formed.
- Oral Health: Poor oral health can potentially increase the risk of complications during the procedure. Before the procedure, our dentist will ensure you’re in good oral health. Maintaining proper hygiene post-wisdom teeth removal is vital for preventing complications and ensuring a smooth recovery.
- Orthodontic Considerations: If a patient is receiving orthodontic treatment, an orthodontist might recommend the removal of wisdom teeth to prevent any potential future alignment issues or to create space.
Prophylactic Removal
Some dental professionals recommend the removal of wisdom teeth even if they aren’t causing problems. The rationale is that potential complications can be avoided, and younger patients might recover from the procedure more quickly than older individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wisdom tooth removal is usually painless, and most people experience little to no pain after surgery. Typically, there’s some mild discomfort and swelling for three to four days following the extraction.
It depends. Some people’s wisdom teeth come in without any issues and don’t need to be removed. However, it’s essential to maintain regular dental check-ups. Dentists can monitor the growth and position of wisdom teeth using X-rays to predict potential problems before they arise. If your dentist foresees future issues like impaction or misalignment, they might recommend a proactive removal.
Contact Our Dentist for Your Wisdom Teeth Appointment!
Do you think your wisdom teeth need to be removed? If so, contact our Loveland, CO dentist today. We’ll schedule an appointment and evaluate your oral health to determine if wisdom tooth extraction is best for you.
To schedule an appointment, contact our Loveland dental office at (970) 669-3918. We welcome patients from Boulder, Fort Collins, and Evans.