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Our Services | Oral Surgery
| For most of us, problems with third molars or "wisdom" teeth, are a
fact of life that come with the "wisdom" of maturity! That's why having
them removed is often the best way to prevent problems.
Wisdom teeth have earned a reputation for making trouble in this
day and age when many of us have smaller jaws than our ancestors.
Frequently when these third molars at the back of the mouth begin
trying to emerge sometime during our late teens or early twenties, there's not enough
room for them and the potential for trouble begins—making a strong case
for having them removed as soon as possible. |
Why is the wisdom tooth extracted so often?
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What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause?
The tendency for wisdom teeth to become "impacted" or unable to move
into their proper position is the cause of most problems. Impacted
wisdom teeth grow in any way they can, such as sideways or at an angle.
Some may partially break through the gum surface, while others remain
trapped beneath the gum and bone, leading to a host of potential
complications:
- Infected gums
When the tooth has only partially broken through the surface,
bacteria can enter through the opening or flap around the tooth and
cause the gum to become infected. This uncomfortable condition is best
avoided by having the wisdom teeth removed before infection can develop.
- Decay
Because partially-emerged wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, plaque
containing bacteria may form on the surface and create cavities in the
wisdom tooth and adjacent teeth.
- Crowding and structural damage to other teeth
When teeth become crowded, they lose their proper position in the
mouth. Thorough cleaning becomes more difficult and teeth may wear
unevenly or prematurely with structural damage as a result. These are
just a few problems that may occur.
- Cyst formation
When a wisdom tooth is impacted, the sac that surrounds the tooth can
fill with fluid and form a cyst that is capable of damaging adjacent
teeth, the jawbone and nerves.
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