Have you been told to remove your wisdom teeth? Most likely, it’s a wise decision to do so. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth that generally emerge in early adulthood. They often cause various oral health issues such as misalignment, impaction, crowding, and infections. In today’s blog, your Cerritos, CA, dentist discusses the reasons for removing wisdom teeth and the recommended timing for the extraction process.
Why Say Good-Bye?
You may be wondering why you should remove a good set of teeth. After all, they may not be hurting you right now. However, just because you don’t notice pain does not mean that they are healthy or will remain healthy. Most people’s jaws do not have sufficient space to accommodate the eruption of wisdom teeth. As a result, these teeth can become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gums and bone. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth. They can also grow in at odd angles, causing them to push against adjacent teeth. This can cause crowding and misalignment, affecting the bite and overall oral health.
Most of the time these hard-to-reach teeth end up with periodontal disease or decay. The bacteria thrive in these vulnerable areas and can begin to cause issues for the surrounding teeth. At your dental check-ups the hygienist can reach them and clean them but soon after your cleaning the bacteria will begin to accumulate again continuing the destruction.
The Ideal Time for Extraction
We recommend extracting wisdom teeth before they become a problem. During the late teens, the roots are not fully developed, making the extraction process easier and the recovery faster. In some instances, monitoring wisdom teeth is advisable if they are not causing pain or problems, especially if they sit on a nerve. Our advanced digital x-ray technology helps us to create the appropriate plan for you. Regular check-ups will help us to evaluate their development and identify any complications. If issues arise, extraction may be recommended at that point, regardless of age.
Schedule Your Evaluation Today
Removing wisdom teeth is often necessary to prevent potential oral health complications. However, every case is unique, so schedule your consultation and we will advise you on the ideal time for removal. Call your Cerritos, CA dentist’s office at (562)584-4082 to learn the best course of action for you!
