Should I have my Wisdom Teeth Removed?

As the dentist London, KY residents visit for their oral health and preventative dentistry needs we often get questions about wisdom teeth.  Wisdom teeth are the very last teeth to erupt and are located in the very back of your upper and lower jaws.  For some, wisdom teeth aren’t a bother.  However, for the majority of patients, wisdom teeth pose painful problems and cause crowding.  If you’ve considered having your wisdom teeth removed, talk with our London, KY dentist about getting them extracted.  Today we look at how wisdom teeth affect your health so you have a clearer understanding of how you might be affected.

Do I have to have my wisdom teeth removed?

If you are of the minority group whose wisdom teeth aren’t causing you pain, consider yourself lucky.  Still, the absence of pain does not eliminate your smile from risks.  Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of your mouth and come in at an angle usually.  Even before they break through your gum line, wisdom teeth can cause oral health issues.  As they push up, they can cause straight teeth to become crooked.  Then, the permanent teeth that are already in place get moved as the wisdom teeth try to make space for themselves.  Removing wisdom teeth lets your permanent teeth come in as straight as possible without having to fight for a position in your smile.

Why are wisdom teeth removed?

As we stated above, wisdom teeth most often cause your other teeth to become misaligned.  This results in a need for braces and can also cause unnecessary jaw pain.  Wisdom teeth can also become impacted; meaning they can’t break through the gum line as easily which then can cause an abscess or infection.  Our London, KY dentist uses X-Rays in addition to a dental exam to determine the likelihood of extraction.  We can refer you to an oral surgeon or advise you of your options.  Your past oral health history also plays a role in whether or not you should have your wisdom teeth removed.

When should my wisdom teeth be removed?

The most common age, in many cases, to remove your wisdom teeth is when you are a teen.  At this time, your adult teeth have come in but are still finding their place in your mouth.  Removing wisdom teeth allows these teeth to come in straight.  If they are not removed, you may experience sinus pain, jaw pain, and even more serious infections.  Our team is here to help you evaluate your needs and to discuss your options. 

If you are considering the fate of your smile, please talk with us.  We’ll get you secured with the information you need to ensure your oral health and smile are in great shape.  Learn more about our services via Facebook or call our office to learn more.