As you get older, you might notice that there are a few more teeth in the back of your mouth. These are called wisdom teeth, and usually, signs that they are present begin when you’re about 16 or 17 years old. Sometimes, these teeth needs to be removed because they are impacted or don’t break through the gums. At other times, they could come through as they should, which is beneficial for chewing. If your teeth are impacted, Schultz Family Dental can perform the removal of them so that you get the relief that you desire.

Crowding

If there’s not enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth, there will usually be a few symptoms that you notice. Even if you do have room in your mouth for more teeth, they could grow at an odd angle or sideways. This would mean that they need to be removed. Once there are signs of your wisdom teeth showing on an X-ray, your dentist will monitor their development. Some of the things that your dentist will look for are areas surrounding the teeth if they don’t erupt all the way. These areas could lead to food and bacteria getting trapped. You might not be able to floss or brush your teeth properly if your wisdom teeth don’t erupt as they should. Sometimes, damage can occur to neighboring teeth if your wisdom teeth don’t have enough space.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

There are a few reasons why Schultz Family Dental would remove your wisdom teeth. The most common reason is because of severe pain. You might not have pain directly where your teeth are located, as impacted wisdom teeth can cause headaches and pain in your ears or sinuses. Removal is usually performed if there are signs of an infection or if there is an indication of a cyst. You could also have your teeth removed if there is clear damage to other teeth or to the wisdom teeth. If you plan on getting braces, then your dentist or orthodontist might suggest having your wisdom teeth removed as a way to allow the other teeth to have room to shift during the orthodontic treatment process.

You usually have time to make a decision about whether wisdom tooth removal is the best option. Your dentist will physically examine your teeth and gums at each dental appointment and can also monitor your teeth by taking X-rays. If you notice any significant changes between appointments, then you need to alert your dentist in order to determine if the teeth have moved or if they have started to come through. Teeth that remain in your mouth need to be monitored for any signs of an infection or decay. It’s possible that there could be issues that arise years after your wisdom teeth erupt that weren’t present at first. Make sure you go to each dental appointment and provide the proper oral care to keep all of your teeth as clean as possible, especially the wisdom teeth, since they are located farther back in your mouth.

Schedule Your Appointment

By continually going to regular dental appointments, Dr. Schultz can monitor your teeth, and specifically your wisdom teeth, very closely. If Dr. Schultz notices your wisdom teeth coming in at an odd angle, or if they are causing any pain, then she may recommend their removal.  If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth, or just want to have them checked, call our office to schedule an appointment. We’d be happy to take a look, and let you know what we think!