Wisdom teeth are extracted for two general reasons: either the wisdom teeth are impacted, or the wisdom teeth could potentially become problematic if not extracted.
What are impacted wisdom teeth? Wisdom teeth are the third molars, the last teeth to erupt. Impacted wisdom teeth are unable to erupt. They may have grown in at an awkward angle or are blocked by another tooth or even your jawbone. Over time, your impacted tooth could cause problems such as decay, damage to other teeth or pain.
Wisdom teeth appear between the ages of 17 and 21. However, they may begin causing problems years earlier. There is not always enough room at the back of your jaw for your wisdom teeth, this can lead to inflammation, pain and difficulty opening your jaw.
Potential problems caused by the presence of improperly grown-in wisdom teeth include infections caused by food particles easily trapped in the jaw area behind the wisdom teeth where regular brushing and flossing is difficult and ineffective. Such infections may be frequent, and can cause considerable pain and medical danger.
If you have a tooth that is not able to be saved through another procedure, you can opt to have it removed. Taking a tooth out can be one of quickest and most cost-effective way to deal with a toothache.
If you have any questions about tooth extractions, please speak to Dr. Radice, Dr. Perrella, Dr. Annie or one of our Today's Family Dental team members today.