So what is all the fuss about wisdom teeth anyway! Why does it seem everyone has them removed? Do they have to be removed? How will I know what my wisdom teeth need when they come in? These and other questions will be answered as we talk about the 3 things you need to know about wisdom teeth.
1. Wisdom Teeth are Supposed to be Fashionably Late
Wisdom teeth, unlike the rest of your teeth, come in when you are presumably much wiser, in your teens or early adult years, instead of late childhood. This late arrival can cause a few problems, considering that your mouth has a limited amount of space, and by the time your wisdom teeth show up, there isn’t much left. This can cause issues with overcrowding, misalignments, and other shenanigans that mess with the status quo in your mouth. Your Dentist or Orthodontist may have an idea what kind of ruckus your wisdom teeth intend to cause, or whether or not they’ll come in and take their places quietly with little or no fuss. Discuss with your dental professionals what your situation may shape up to be, and what you need to know about wisdom teeth in your particular situation.
2. To Remove or Not to Remove? That is the Question!
Overcrowding and misalignment aren’t the only things you need to know about wisdom teeth and their mischief making. Impacted wisdom teeth, that is wisdom teeth that are stuck in the gums, can be a risk for infection and other issues. This is a situation where removal may be unavoidable. Having a conversation about the risks and benefits of removal may help you make the decision your mouth needs.
3. How Will I Know What My Wisdom Teeth Need?
Talking to your Dentist is a good start. They may use X rays or an exam to determine what is going on in your mouth, and what those wisdom teeth are planning for your future. Remember one thing you need to know about wisdom teeth, you don’t always need them removed, and you don’t always have the room for them to stay. Once your dental professional is able to collect enough information, you can discuss your options, your preferences, and probable outcomes so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to have a wisdom teeth intervention.
Call our Arvada Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.