Contact Us
Schedule your appointment online or give us a call to get started today.
Discover the role of evolutionary development in wisdom teeth issues! It turns out, human jaws have been shrinking over time due to changes in diet and an increase in brain size. While we can now enjoy a wider variety of foods and boast superior cognitive abilities, our smaller jaws often struggle to accommodate all of our teeth. This problem frequently affects the third molars, commonly known as "wisdom teeth."
Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth that develop in the oral cavity and emerge between ages 17-21. They can have a hard time fitting into smaller jaws, leading to potential issues such as impaction or problems for nearby teeth. In fact, approximately 85% of people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed.
Most individuals grow four wisdom teeth, but there are cases where some people develop fewer than four, none at all, and even a few rare instances of extra ones. As these teeth generally emerge during the transition from teen years into adulthood—a time often referred to as "the Age of Wisdom"—they've earned their nickname.
A wisdom tooth is considered impacted when it becomes trapped under gum tissue or bone and cannot erupt. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions can be classified differently. Soft tissue impactions occur when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue, while bony impactions occur when a wisdom tooth stays partially or fully obstructed by bone.
At the office of First Family Dental, we prioritize maintaining our patients' oral health during every checkup visit. A key aspect of this is checking the development, position, and overall health of wisdom teeth, as well as any adjacent teeth and surrounding tissues. If your third molars have enough room to erupt properly, align correctly, and do not pose a threat to other teeth or tissues, we may not recommend extraction.
However, if we determine that your wisdom teeth require removal, we can perform the procedure at our office or refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The best course of action will always depend on each individual patient's unique needs and circumstances.
Wisdom tooth extractions involve the careful, skilled removal of impacted or poorly positioned teeth. Depending on your specific case, this process may be done at our office or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who specializes in dental surgery.
Following a wisdom tooth extraction, it's essential to follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Our dedicated staff will provide you with detailed guidance on how to maintain good oral hygiene and minimize discomfort during the healing process.
While not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, it's crucial for individuals with these teeth to maintain regular dental checkups. By staying on top of your oral health, you can prevent potential issues and enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.
When it comes to maintaining your dental health, choosing the right practice is essential. At the office of First Family Dental, we offer a range of general dentistry services designed to meet the unique needs of each patient. Our compassionate team works together to provide personalized, comprehensive care that leaves you feeling confident in your oral health.
If you suspect you may be experiencing wisdom teeth problems or simply want to ensure the health of your third molars, don't hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment. Our friendly staff is always ready to assist you in any way they can, helping you achieve a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Schedule your appointment online or give us a call to get started today.
