You know the annoying guests that show up “fashionably late” to a party? In dentistry, we call them wisdom teeth. These late-blooming molars take their sweet time to make an entrance, much to the dismay of our unsuspecting oral landscapes. Because of the various dental concerns that can arise – and because everybody’s experience with wisdom teeth is different, wisdom teeth often become a topic of discussion. These third molars typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. And they don’t always come in trouble-free. At Tecumseh Ridge Dental in Norman, we have seen a thing or two when it comes to extractions. So, here are the facts on wisdom teeth.
Assessing Wisdom Teeth Issues
Wisdom teeth are vestiges from our evolutionary past when our ancestors had larger jaws to accommodate a tougher diet. In today’s smaller-jawed humans, these additional molars often lack sufficient space to emerge properly. As a result, they can become impacted, partially erupted, or even remain trapped within the jawbone. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth.
Common Signs of Wisdom Teeth Problems
For some people their wisdom teeth make a clear and painful entry. But for others the signs are more subtle. Being proactive about recognizing the signs of wisdom teeth problems is crucial. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to consult with Dr. Wheatley for an evaluation:
- Pain or Discomfort: If you feel persistent pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the back of your mouth, it might be due to emerging or impacted wisdom teeth.
- Swelling and Redness: Inflammation and redness in the gum tissue around the back of your mouth can indicate infection or inflammation caused by wisdom teeth issues.
- Jaw Stiffness: Difficulty opening your mouth fully or experiencing jaw stiffness might be a sign that your wisdom teeth are causing problems.
- Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Infection or trapped food particles around partially erupted wisdom teeth can lead to bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth.
- Headaches: Radiating pain from the back of your mouth to your temples can be indicative of wisdom teeth problems affecting your bite and jaw alignment.
Development and Eruption of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth may begin to emerge during late adolescence or early adulthood. The dentist will monitor their development through X-rays and clinical exams. If it’s predicted that the wisdom teeth will cause issues as they continue to grow in, removal might be recommended. It’s important to note that the best time for wisdom teeth removal can vary from person to person. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the development of wisdom teeth and identify any potential issues early on. Your dentist will evaluate your unique situation, including the position, alignment, and health of your wisdom teeth, before recommending a course of action.
When Is It Time For a Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
Dr. Wheatley believes in conservative treatment whenever possible. However, wisdom teeth extraction becomes necessary when:
- Impaction: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cyst formation, damage to neighboring teeth, and infection.
- Pain and Discomfort: Chronic pain, soreness, or discomfort are clear indicators that your wisdom teeth need attention.
- Infection: If you experience recurrent gum infections or abscesses around your wisdom teeth, extraction might be the best solution.
- Alignment Issues: Wisdom teeth can disrupt the alignment of your existing teeth, leading to orthodontic problems if left untreated.
- Cyst Formation: In some cases, cysts can develop around impacted wisdom teeth, causing damage to the surrounding bone and teeth. This is a serious condition that may necessitate extraction.
While wisdom teeth generally come in during the teenage years or in your early 20s, the decision to remove wisdom teeth is not solely based on age but rather on the individual’s specific dental situation. Some people may never experience any issues with their wisdom teeth and can keep them without any problems. However, for many others, extraction becomes necessary to prevent complications.
When it comes to wisdom teeth extraction, trust the skilled team at Tecumseh Ridge Dental in Norman. Our experienced dentist has a comprehensive experience with extractions and we utilize the latest technology and techniques to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
What’s the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process Like?
During your consultation, our team will assess your unique situation through thorough examination and X-rays. If extraction is recommended, don’t worry! We offer various sedation options to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Our dentist will carefully remove the problematic wisdom teeth, and you’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions to promote a smooth recovery. In very rare cases, we may refer to a dental surgeon that we collaborate with.
If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or any other signs of wisdom teeth problems, it’s time to consider extraction. At Tecumseh Ridge Dental in Norman, Oklahoma, we’re committed to providing expert dental care, including wisdom teeth extraction, to ensure your oral health and overall well-being. Don’t wait until the discomfort worsens. Schedule a consultation with us today and let our skilled team take care of your wisdom teeth concerns. Your smile deserves nothing less than the best care!
Schedule your consultation today and restore the smile that you deserve. Tecumseh Ridge Dental of Norman accepts most insurance plans. Financing is available as needed.Call us at (405) 857-6453 and we will get you in quickly.
