If you didn’t have your wisdom teeth removed as a young person, you may be considering extraction as an adult. Your dentist may recommend this procedure to prevent future infections, cysts, or jaw pain caused by impacted wisdom teeth, or even reduce the risk of developing tumors associated with these teeth.
What are impacted teeth?
Impacted teeth occur when a wisdom tooth grows underneath an existing tooth, often pushing against other teeth. In some cases, wisdom teeth grow in straight behind the back molars, while in rare situations, one or more may not emerge at all. X-rays can reveal whether impacted teeth are present, and if they are causing problems with other teeth, they need to be removed.
Challenges for adults
As the roots of wisdom teeth typically develop fully around the age of 24, extraction becomes more complicated for adults. The roots can become entangled with facial nerves, making the removal process riskier. A CT scan is often recommended for adults, as it provides a detailed image of facial nerve positioning, something an x-ray might not show. If the roots of the lower wisdom teeth aren’t touching or wrapped around the alveolar nerve, extraction can still be performed.
Risks for gum disease
Adults with wisdom teeth are at a higher risk for gum disease, which can lead to serious health issues. Gum disease has been linked to complications in pregnancy and other health conditions. This condition, once thought to only affect older adults, is now being observed in younger patients, particularly pregnant women. Additionally, growing evidence shows that chronic infections and inflammation in the body due to gum disease can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Talk to your dentist to determine if wisdom tooth extraction is right for you. Be honest about any symptoms you may have, such as pain or pressure, so the professional can assess your specific needs.
Do not wait any longer. Book your appointment now and achieve the smile you have always wanted. Dr. Drain is accepting new patients from Sicklerville and the surrounding area.
