Wisdom teeth are also referred to as third molars. This is because these teeth are the last to arrive after the second molars. Wisdom teeth can sometimes emerge with no problems or issues, which allows some people to keep them. Many people, however, do face issues with their wisdom teeth and extraction becomes necessary. Wisdom teeth typically emerge when a person is between 17 and 22 years old. Through x-ray or digital technology, it is often apparent to a dentist whether the teeth will be problematic. If your child is in that age range, it may be time for them to check on the status of their wisdom teeth. Your dentist in Olathe, KS, can help you determine if wisdom teeth extraction is necessary.
Avoid Damage To Your Smile
When an extraction is necessary, it can sometimes be because there is simply not room in the smile for the wisdom teeth. If the teeth emerge, they can do so at a wonky angle bumping into the surrounding teeth, which can lead to damage. Some wisdom teeth remain impacted, which means they stay beneath the bone and gums. If wisdom teeth are allowed to emerge from the gums, they can push the surrounding teeth into new positions leading to a domino effect on the smile. Extracting wisdom teeth preemptively can help to avoid damage to the rest of the teeth, bones, or tissues nearby.
Avoid Painful Infection
Sometimes, wisdom teeth only partially emerge. In doing so, they can create a flap in the gum tissue that can become painfully infected. The flap of gum tissue can become red, puffy, and inflamed; chewing can become painful. Food can get caught under the flap leading to bad breath and further infection. Extracting a partially erupted wisdom tooth can provide some relief to the pain and infection.
Wisdom Teeth Do Not Necessarily Need To Be Extracted
Before school is back in session could be a good time to assess the wisdom teeth. To schedule a consultation, call E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, and all surrounding communities.