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Have you ever wondered why human jaws have become smaller over time? It's believed that this change is linked to our evolutionary development. As our diet has shifted and our brains have grown larger, our jaw size has decreased. However, there's a downside: smaller jaws often don't leave enough room for all of our teeth. This issue typically affects the third molars, or "wisdom teeth."
Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to develop in the mouth and can emerge between ages 17 and 21. Due to their late arrival, they're often called "wisdom teeth" because this period coincides with the transition from teenage years into adulthood. However, not all wisdom teeth come in smoothly.
When a wisdom tooth doesn't have sufficient room to erupt, it can become impacted. This means the tooth remains submerged under gum tissue or bone and cannot emerge into place. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions are classified in different ways. Soft tissue impactions occur when a wisdom tooth is covered by gum tissue, while bony impactions happen when a wisdom tooth is obstructed by bone.
At the office of First Family Dental, we prioritize our patients' dental health. During every checkup visit, we carefully examine the development, location, and health of your wisdom teeth, as well as the adjacent teeth and surrounding tissues. If your wisdom teeth have room to erupt correctly, don't cause damage to other teeth or tissues, and are free from large cavities, extractions may not be necessary. However, if we recommend having your wisdom teeth removed, we can perform the procedure in our office or refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Wisdom teeth extractions are a common dental procedure. In fact, approximately 85% of people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their lives. This is because these teeth can cause various problems when they don't have enough room to emerge properly.
Wisdom teeth can become impacted, leading to pain and discomfort. They may also develop abnormally or contribute to the development of cavities in adjacent teeth. In some cases, wisdom teeth extractions may be necessary to prevent these issues from occurring or worsening.
General dentists play a crucial role in maintaining the overall health of your teeth and gums. They can monitor the development of your wisdom teeth, recommend appropriate treatment options, and perform extractions when necessary. By working with a general dentist you trust, you can ensure that your dental care is comprehensive and tailored to your unique needs.
Maintaining good oral health is a lifelong commitment. Regular checkups with your general dentist can help you stay on top of any potential issues, including problems related to your wisdom teeth. By working together with your dental team, you can ensure that your smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.
At the office of First Family Dental, we believe that dental care should be both caring and enjoyable. Our dedicated staff is committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth or other aspects of your oral health, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Don't let the unique journey of your wisdom teeth catch you off guard. Schedule a consultation with our office today to learn more about how we can help you maintain optimal oral health and ensure that your smile stays beautiful for years to come.
Schedule your appointment online or give us a call to get started today.
