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Have you ever wondered why we have wisdom teeth if they often require removal? Long ago, they may have once served a purpose, but now, they usually arrive only to stir up trouble. In late adolescence, these seemingly harmless molars often cause issues like discomfort and demand extra attention. Their delayed arrival can lead to complications like impaction or crowding, prompting the common need for extraction. At Bent Tree Dental, we aim to provide specialized care for all aspects of your dental health, including carefully monitoring and managing your wisdom teeth.
Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to grace us with their presence. They typically make an appearance in our late teens to early twenties. These teeth once played a pivotal role in our ancestors’ ability to process a diet consisting largely of rough, uncooked foods. However, culinary practices evolved, and human diets became softer and more refined. As a result, the necessity for these additional grinding machines has diminished.
The human jaw has also become gradually smaller over generations. This change often leaves insufficient space for wisdom teeth to align within the mouth properly. This mismatch between jaw size and the number of teeth can lead to many complications, drifting into a position where they’re more a source of concern than an asset in chewing. In this modern context, wisdom teeth have transformed from necessary tools for survival into dental curiosities that often require monitoring or intervention. That is why we focus on navigating these evolutionary leftovers and ensuring they don’t disrupt your oral health.
How Will I Know If I Need My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Proactive Care
In many instances, wisdom teeth removal is a proactive step. Even if they haven’t caused problems yet, their presence may complicate oral hygiene or pose a risk later on. By assessing the growth and position of these teeth through X-rays, Dr. Miller can predict potential issues and recommend extraction as a preventive measure.
Bad Breath or Taste
The most common issue arising from wisdom teeth is their struggle for space. When there isn’t enough room for these molars to emerge naturally, they can become impacted—stuck beneath the gum line or only partially erupting. This impaction can create a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to infection, not to mention considerable discomfort. It can also cause bad breath or a consistent bad taste in the mouth.
You might also notice swelling around the jaw or redness and swelling of the gums near the back of your mouth. Also known as pericoronitis, this inflammation can sometimes extend to the face, especially around the affected area. If the wisdom teeth are causing significant swelling or are impacted in a way that affects jaw movement, you may find it challenging to open your mouth fully.
Pain and Discomfort
Wisdom teeth can also threaten the health and alignment of adjacent teeth. As they attempt to find room to emerge, they can push against other molars, causing pain, misalignment, or damage to the teeth. These issues can undo years of orthodontic work or require dental correction.
What to Expect From Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction
So, you’ve been told you need your wisdom teeth removed. What now? Fortunately, wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure performed routinely. Here at Bent Tree Dental, we’ve helped countless patients through this process, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
- Sedation options: To ensure comfort, we offer various sedation options. These include local anesthesia, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and oral or IV sedation. Our team will work with you to determine the most appropriate sedation method. The decision is based on your health, preferences, and the complexity of the extraction.
- Extraction: The extraction method will depend on the position and development of your wisdom teeth. Fully erupted teeth may be removed like standard extractions, while impacted teeth require a more involved surgical approach.
- L-PRF therapy: Bent Tree Dental embraces the latest recovery technologies, including leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) therapy. This innovative treatment involves using your own blood to create a fibrin matrix that promotes natural healing, reducing recovery time and enhancing the healing process post-extraction.
Recovery from extraction varies from person to person but typically involves managing swelling and discomfort in the days following the procedure. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery!
Preserve Your Oral Health at Bent Tree Dental Today
Wisdom teeth often bring their own set of challenges. If you urgently need care, we provide personalized, thorough treatment options. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to safeguard your oral health and prevent wisdom teeth takeover.
