A wisdom tooth extraction presents many health benefits to a person – especially from a preventive aspect. Wisdom teeth are troublesome to oral health because they contribute to an increased risk for gum disease, tooth decay, oral infections like abscesses, TMJ disorder, worn dentition, and orofacial pain. By have a wisdom tooth extraction, patients can prevent these unwelcome side effects and enjoy greater chances of maintaining vibrant oral health.
Why are wisdom teeth detrimental to my oral health?
Wisdom teeth are detrimental for a few reasons. The issues they cause stem from the fact that they arrive during adulthood while the rest of teeth come in during adolescence. Wisdom teeth’s late arrival leads to a crowded situation in the mouth and many times, wisdom teeth become stuck (impacted) in the bone and/or gums. Since they cannot erupt properly, the tooth may only come through the gums partially. A partially erupted tooth can easily lead to dental caries when food and debris become trapped beneath the gums. Moreover, partially erupted teeth can increase the risk for gum disease.
The crowded situation with teeth often causes healthily positioned teeth to shift out of alignment. It can also affect the way teeth line up during oral function, which can cause worn dentition, orofacial pain, and TMJ disorder.
When should I have a wisdom tooth extraction?
Normally, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon when your wisdom teeth erupt. It is important to keep routine checkups with your dental provider so that diagnostic images and physical examinations can reveal when wisdom teeth are emerging. It is best to have a wisdom tooth extraction before wisdom teeth cause oral health issues.
What if my wisdom teeth are not bothering me?
Even if you don’t have obvious symptoms like headaches, tooth decay, or orofacial pain, it is normally best to have wisdom teeth extracted as preventive measure. Having your wisdom teeth removed can literally save you time and money on treatments needed to address oral health problems that they contribute to.
Call us today at Northern Texas Facial & Oral Surgery to reserve a consultation.
