Wisdom Teeth Extraction- Why Delaying Removal Isn't Wise

Wisdom teeth, the upper and lower third molars

, get their name because they usually make their first appearance later in life-during the "age of wisdom"-typically in the late teens and early twenties. Eruption of these molars does not cause problems for everyone, but many people need to have these teeth removed since most mouths are too small to accommodate normal positioning of four additional teeth.

Serious dental and general health problems can arise involving your wisdom teeth, including infection and shifting of adjacent teeth. That's why it's important to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can monitor the development of your third molars, and if necessary, recommend wisdom tooth extraction-a minor and very common oral surgery performed to remove the wisdom teeth.

When Removal is Necessary

Maintaining routine check ups with your dentist is the best way to determine whether or not your wisdom teeth need removed. Your dentist will examine your molars and take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth. Regular visits are an important part of monitoring their development and helping dentists make an appropriately timed recommendation for their removal, should it be necessary.

Symptoms of emerging third molars may not be present at all. Common symptoms that indicate that the wisdom teeth are surfacing and should be removed include:

*Aching in the jaw

*Gum swelling or bleeding

*Soreness around the molars

*Facial swelling

Ignoring wisdom teeth symptoms can lead to serious consequences. When the wisdom teeth don't fully erupt or erupt misaligned, they are considered "impacted." Impacted teeth can damage adjacent teeth, bone and tissue beneath the gum line. Impacted teeth are also at risk for infection as bacteria can accumulate and enter the opening gum tissue. If wisdom teeth do come in fully, there is a good chance that they won't be fully aligned or straight, thus causing damage to neighboring teeth.

Wising Up About Extraction

A common misconception about wisdom teeth removal is that as long as they aren't causing pain, they do not need removed. A lack of pain, however, does not mean problems aren't present.

If your dentist suggests its time to have your wisdom teeth removed, heed his advice. The earlier you have the teeth extracted the better. While you may be tempted to delay treatment, the older you get and the longer you wait to have the molars removed will actually make the extraction more difficult. That's because the tooth roots of younger people are not yet fully developed and the bone is less dense, making extraction easier. In most cases, recovery and healing time is also faster and easier in younger individuals.

The first step in resolving any existing or potential problems with your wisdom teeth is having them examined by your dentist. Remember to never ignore symptoms as delaying removal can lead to more serious complications. Your Jacksonville dentist will be able to recommend the best course of action, if any, for removing your wisdom teeth and ensuring the best possible outcome.

by: Gen Wright

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