Intrinsic Family Dental | Oral Surgery in Huntington Woods
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars in the back of your mouth that typically appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. While some people never experience problems with their wisdom teeth, many others find that these late-arriving molars can lead to significant oral health issues.
But First…. What are Wisdom Teeth Anyway?
Wisdom teeth are thought to be evolutionary relics, remnants from our ancestors who had much larger jaws with more teeth for chewing tough, raw foods like leaves, roots, nuts, and meats. Our jaws became smaller as human diets and cooking methods evolved, but the genetic programming for wisdom teeth remained. Today, many people’s jaws are not large enough to accommodate these extra molars, leading to the common issues associated with their emergence. Thus, while they once served a clear purpose, wisdom teeth are now more often a cause for dental intervention.
For residents in Huntington Woods, understanding why wisdom tooth extraction might be necessary is crucial. Here, we’ll explore the common reasons for oral surgery and how it can benefit oral health.
1. Impaction and Pain Relief
One of the most frequent issues associated with wisdom teeth is impaction, where the teeth do not fully emerge through the gums. This can occur because there isn’t enough room in the mouth for the teeth to develop normally. Impacted wisdom teeth can be painful and lead to infection. Removing these teeth can provide relief and prevent further dental complications.
2. Preventing Infection and Decay
Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are notoriously difficult to clean. This can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, resulting in decay not only on the wisdom teeth themselves but also on neighboring teeth. In some cases, tumors or cysts can develop around untreated wisdom teeth, leading to significant health risks and requiring more complex treatments.
3. Avoiding Overcrowding and Misalignment
For many in Huntington Woods, the aesthetics and functionality of their smiles are essential. Wisdom teeth can push other teeth as they try to make room for themselves in a crowded mouth, which can cause misalignment of your existing teeth. This can disrupt any previous orthodontic work and create a need for further dental interventions. Extracting wisdom teeth can help maintain the alignment and integrity of your other teeth.
4. Easing Gum Inflammation and Discomfort
When wisdom teeth partially emerge through the gums, they create a flap of gum tissue over the tooth. This area can trap food and bacteria, leading to painful gum inflammation known as pericoronitis. Regularly removing wisdom teeth, especially when symptoms begin to appear, can prevent this painful condition and contribute to overall gum health.
5. Long-term Oral Health Benefits
The removal of wisdom teeth can have significant benefits for your long-term oral health. It simplifies dental hygiene, reduces the risk of oral diseases, and ensures that the remaining teeth have enough space to thrive without additional pressures. This preventative measure can save a lot of time, money, and discomfort in the long run.
6. Enhancing Orthodontic Results
Wisdom tooth extraction can be crucial for those undergoing or planning to undergo orthodontic treatments. These teeth can jeopardize the results of braces and other alignment therapies by crowding and pushing teeth into undesirable positions as they grow. Removing them early in treatment can prevent these issues and facilitate better orthodontic outcomes.
Varied Numbers: Diversity of Wisdom Teeth Development
Fun fact: Not everyone develops a complete set of four wisdom teeth; some may have fewer or none. This variation is quite normal and can be attributed to genetic differences. For those with only a few wisdom teeth, the decision to remove them still depends on whether they pose potential problems such as impaction, crowding of other teeth, or difficulties with oral hygiene. Even if there are fewer wisdom teeth, it’s essential to monitor them with the help of a dental professional to ensure they do not disrupt the overall health of your mouth.
Choose Intrinsic Family Dental for Your Oral Surgery Needs
At Intrinsic Family Dental in Huntington Woods, our expert team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality dental care. We get it- the thought of oral surgery can be daunting, so we strive to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced professionals ensure that your extraction will be handled with the utmost care.
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth or seeking expert advice about whether wisdom tooth extraction suits you, don’t hesitate to contact Intrinsic Family Dental. Our friendly staff will help you schedule a consultation and provide all the information you need to make an informed decision. Visit our website or call us today to take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!
