Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth or third molars are the last teeth to develop and appear in the mouth. They are called "wisdom teeth" because they usually appear as the last tooth behind the upper and lower second molars during the person's late teens or early twenties. When wisdom teeth are aligned properly and the gum tissue is healthy they do not have to be extracted. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of the wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum tissue, and even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. Serious problems can develop from partially impacted teeth, such as pain, infection, and crowding of, or damage to, adjacent teeth. For fully impacted teeth, more serious problems can occur when tumors or cysts form around the tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. Removal of the offending impacted tooth or teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is recommended to avoid such future problems and to decrease the risk involved with the surgery.

Drs. Perry, Morrison and Waters can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and determine if they are causing problems or if future concerns are likely to arise. Ideally this consultation should be done during the mid-teenage years and may be requested by the general dentist or orthodontist.

Contact us today for more information!