Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, which are third molars, typically begin to appear in people between the ages of 17 and 25 years old. If the jaw is big enough to accommodate these teeth, then there is usually no need to remove the wisdom teeth.
However, if the jaw is not large enough, then the wisdom teeth may not be able to break through the gum line correctly. Impacted wisdom teeth refer to molars that are completely or partially stuck below the gum line. They may crowd the other teeth, shifting them out of position. That can lead to problems with the person’s bite and the person’s ability to speak and chew.
Our Coast Dental Cascade oral surgeon in Atlanta may recommend wisdom teeth extractions for reasons including:
- Your jaw bone is not large enough for the wisdom teeth to emerge from under the gums
- The wisdom teeth are coming through the gums only partway or are coming in at an awkward angle, which can lead to infection
- The impacted wisdom teeth are damaging the jaw bone or other teeth
- The wisdom teeth are leading to sinus pain, pressure, and/or congestion
Wisdom teeth don’t always cause pain, which is why our dentist uses x-rays to monitor how the teeth are coming in. If it looks like the wisdom teeth may cause problems, then the dentist will likely recommend having the wisdom teeth removed when you’re in your late teens or early 20s. That’s because the roots of the wisdom teeth are not fully developed yet, and the bone around the teeth is less dense. Younger people also tend to heal faster than older people.
Whether you need to have your wisdom teeth removed to prevent future problems or alleviate an existing condition, our dentist will be happy to talk to you about any questions you have. Call our Coast Dental office on Cascade Road SW at (678) 891-0069 to schedule a consultation about wisdom teeth extractions.
