Why & When Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Between the ages of 17 and 25, most people’s third molars (“wisdom teeth”), begin to erupt through the gums. Wisdom teeth removal is easier when you are still a teenager. This is because the teeth have not become permanently established in the jaw bone and removal of the roots is fast and easy. Your Smile Design dentist will counsel you and your teen about the need for extraction, and Smile Design will make their removal comfortable, anxiety-free, and more affordable.

People typically have four of these teeth, although some may have none and others may have five or more. Wisdom teeth are relics of human history, left over from a time when our ancestors had a larger jaw and needed more molars to make up for tooth loss. If left in your jaw, these teeth may cause numerous oral health issues.

Because most jaws are too small to hold third molars, you may experience:

• Crowding creating malocclusion (a poor bite) and other orthodontic problems
• Pressure damage to surrounding bone tissue and the roots of the adjacent second molar
• Gum tissue inflammation and even painful infection.

Given their location in the back four corners of the mouth, third molars are notoriously difficult to brush and floss, making them much more susceptible to decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. Our dentists and dental specialists advise teens and young adults to have their wisdom teeth extracted before they become a problem.

At Smile Design, we offer sedation options even if the procedure is going to be easy. Teens and young adults typically have little swelling and post-procedure discomfort. There is nothing to be afraid about. Our friendly doctors will make your experience a pleasant one.

We offer complimentary initial exams and counseling for wisdom teeth removal. Give us a call today!