The Wisdom Behind Wisdom Teeth
April 12, 2022
April 12, 2022
Wisdom teeth, or third molar management, is one of the most common issues that the Oral and Facial Surgery Group deals with on a daily basis. Knowing what wisdom teeth are and how to manage them can prevent problems for both adolescents and adults. Treatments can vary based on age and typically are managed with surgery for removal or observed for development of disease.
Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the very back of your mouth. Often times, people end up needing to have them removed due to pain and discomfort that they begin to cause them. This can be due to:
Getting a consultation for your wisdom teeth by the age of 16 is encouraged regardless if you’re experiencing pain or not, to ensure that you get a headstart on potential treatment. The recommended time to have third molars removed is during early adulthood before the roots and bone are fully formed, and when recovery is generally faster after surgery. Having the surgery when an individual is in their twenties can help with the healing process, and it’s a lot less disruptive for the patient’s overall routine.
Older patients who have impacted wisdom teeth that aren’t fully erupted or may not even be visible at all don’t automatically get referred for surgery. If radiographs show that there is no evidence of disease, then some molars can be maintained in place. Although if they begin to experience pain, decay, or gum disease, then it is recommended to have a consultation with your oral surgeon to evaluate the risks and benefits of having them removed.
If you suspect your wisdom teeth are causing you problems, please contact your general dentist for a referral to our office or schedule a consultation directly with one of our offices here.