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Once upon a time, humans needed third molars. Our mouths were bigger, we ate demanding food that required more chewing power. As we have evolved, those extra teeth became unnecessary – and they no longer fit in the mouth all that well. One must wonder then why they have been nicknamed wisdom teeth. Most people undergo wisdom teeth extraction, usually in young adulthood. For the people who do not, emergency dental care to deal with those third molars is likely in their future.
A Few Good Things About Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth do not behave like other molars. They don’t erupt gently above the gumline and take their rightful place at the end of your rows of teeth. Wisdom teeth are far more aggressive and those third molars that are not extracted before they erupt can cause incredible havoc and pain.
But here are the good things:
- They don’t have to sneak up on you. If you see your dentist regularly, they will eventually recommend wisdom teeth extraction. You want to take your dentist’s advice and have this taken care of sooner rather than later to prevent any problems from developing and to avoid the need for an emergency extraction.
- Wisdom teeth do not have to be replaced. The third molars are the only teeth in your mouth that can be extracted and do not need a dental implant or other tooth replacement afterward. Wisdom teeth are pests and, once gone, they’re gone for good.
Potential Dental Emergencies Caused by Wisdom Teeth
If you haven’t had your wisdom teeth removed, you are always at risk for impacted teeth. Wisdom teeth that are impacted can still be completely below the gumline but sitting at an odd angle or they can partially erupt. In either case, the teeth push against the molars beside them and cause pain, pressure, and other dental damage.
Some of the most common side effects of a dental emergency involved impacted wisdom teeth include:
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Severe pain
- Infection
- Crowding
- Tooth decay
- Misalignment
People who have undergone orthodontic treatment should be especially cognizant of the progress of the development of their wisdom teeth. The last thing you want is to have gone through years of braces only to have your straight smile negatively impacted by unneeded and unwanted third molars.
If you see your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups and you are at the age when wisdom teeth are most likely to begin causing problems, your Healdsburg dentist will keep a close watch on the development of these teeth and recommend extraction before problems can develop.
Get Help for Your Dental Emergency Now
Unfortunately, some people suffer through mouth pain and tooth pain, whether they know it’s their wisdom teeth that are making them uncomfortable or not. They choose not to see the dentist for help, but eventually face a dental emergency – the reality is that wisdom teeth will not go away on their own. You need professional wisdom teeth extraction to stop whatever problem has begun. It’s the only way to stop pain and dental damage.
If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are on the move or you are already experiencing mouth pain, contact Dr. Tam at Healdsburg Dental Spa in Healdsburg, CA, to discuss a wisdom tooth extraction.
