What are Wisdom Teeth and Why Might They Need to be Removed?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge at the very back of the mouth, typically between the ages of 14 and 30. While not everyone develops wisdom teeth, those who do may encounter complications necessitating intervention to prevent potential issues. Problematic wisdom teeth that are left untreated can lead to tooth decay, pain, occlusion (bite) problems and gum disease.
Limited space in the mouth often hampers the proper growth of wisdom teeth, leading to various challenges. Partial eruption, where wisdom teeth only partially emerge through the gums, can cause crowding, gum infections, cavities and significant pain. Additionally, wisdom teeth may deviate from their normal growth direction, resulting in crowding and damage to adjacent second molars. Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is insufficient room for proper eruption, causing them to become lodged in the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth foster bacterial growth, which can lead to gum infections characterized by pain, swelling, discomfort and weakness.
Fortunately, dental professionals can often anticipate potential issues with your wisdom teeth early on, and may recommend the proactive removal of wisdom teeth before complications arise. This preventive measure helps avoid the need for more complex and costly surgical procedures in the future.
If you are experiencing discomfort or have concerns about your wisdom teeth, Southdale Square Dental Centre is here to help. Our caring and knowledgeable team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive safe, effective treatment tailored to your needs.
At Southdale Square Dental, we refer patients to a trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMFS) for complex wisdom tooth extractions to ensure the highest level of care and safety.