Wisdom teeth, the third and final set of molars that usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, often cause concern later in life. Many choose to ignore them, not understanding the potential dental issues that arise by keeping them. In this blog, your Cerritos, CA, dentist explores the importance of wisdom teeth extraction and why it is a wise decision.
Insufficient Jaw Space
One of the primary reasons for wisdom teeth extraction is the lack of sufficient space in the jaw. Most people do not have jaws large enough to accommodate an additional set of molars. This can lead to overcrowding and misalignment of teeth requiring orthodontic treatment. Wisdom teeth often become impacted, meaning they are unable to fully erupt through the gums. This can lead to various complications, including pain, infection, swelling, and even cyst formation.
Difficulty in Cleaning
Wisdom teeth are challenging to keep clean, as they are located at the back of the mouth and are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss. The limited accessibility makes them more prone to tooth decay, gum disease, and infections. At your professional dental cleanings, we can often reach these areas but many times the infection is too deep to properly manage long term.
Preventive Care
Some individuals might not experience any immediate problems with their wisdom teeth, but the potential for future complications is high. It is difficult to predict when these problems might arise, but preventive extraction is often recommended to avoid unnecessary pain, infections, and complications later in life.
Should You Extract Your Wisdom Teeth?
Schedule a consultation in our office so that we can determine the best course of action for your third molars. We offer the latest and most comprehensive X-ray technology to examine the position of your teeth and carefully create the best treatment plan for you. It is best to extract them when you are young, and the bone and tooth roots have not fully hardened. We offer oral and IV sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedures.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
The importance of wisdom teeth extraction lies in preventing potential oral health problems. Call your Cerritos, CA dentist’s office at (562)584-4082 to assess your specific situation and determine the most appropriate course of action. Remember, when it comes to wisdom teeth, extraction can be a wise decision for better overall dental health.
