Are Your Wisdom Teeth An Asset Or A Liability?
Ever wondered why they’re called wisdom teeth? These third molars generally erupt between ages 17 and 25 —just as we're gaining 'wisdom’. But for many, not everyone has a smooth experience and the emergence of wisdom teeth can lead to discomfort and dental complications.
Do All Wisdom Teeth Need Removal?
Not necessarily! Wisdom teeth that are healthy, fully erupted, positioned correctly, and aligned with opposite teeth can often be retained. However, they require regular monitoring because they are hard to reach and clean, making them more susceptible to decay and gum disease.
Why Removal Might Be Necessary.
In many cases, wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to develop properly and can lead to issues such as:
Impaction
This occurs when teeth are prevented from emerging naturally or are misaligned. Impacted teeth can lead to infection, pain, and potential damage to adjacent teeth.
Infection
Partially erupted teeth allow bacteria to enter the gums, leading to painful, recurring infections. These infections can lead to pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, and potential systemic health issues.
Overcrowding
Misaligned wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment, undermining orthodontic treatments and natural aesthetics.
Cysts
In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts, which, if not addressed promptly, could potentially damage the jawbone and healthy teeth.
“I got all 4 wisdom teeth pulled out, 2 surgically removed and healed nicely with no problems. She made me feel so comfortable and relaxed.”
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Anne P.
Wisdom teeth removal near you
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If you're ready to book an appointment, you can easily book online now. However, if you can’t find a time that works for you online, please give us a call at 09 600 1739 or email info@re.dental.co.nz
Frequently Asked Questions
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You may need your wisdom teeth removed if you experience:
Jaw pain or tenderness
Swelling around the jaw
Red or swollen gums
Persistent bad breath
An unpleasant taste in the mouth
Difficulty opening your mouth
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As with any surgery, there are risks, which might include:
Dry socket: Occurs if the blood clot at the site of the tooth extraction is dislodged.
Infection: The risk can be minimized by following post-operative care instructions carefully.
Nerve damage: This is rare but can occur, particularly with lower wisdom teeth removal.
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The cost of wisdom tooth extraction can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, and the type of anesthesia used. It can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per tooth. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of wisdom tooth extractions, so it’s advisable to check with your insurance provider.
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If impacted wisdom teeth are not removed, several potential problems can arise:
Infection: The position of wisdom teeth can make them difficult to clean, leading to the accumulation of bacteria that can cause oral infections and gum disease. This can extend to deeper periodontal issues affecting adjacent teeth and overall dental health.
Increased Risk of Decay: Due to their hard-to-reach location, wisdom teeth are more susceptible to decay. The accumulation of bacteria and food particles around these teeth is often greater because they are more difficult to clean effectively. This increases the risk of decay not only in the wisdom teeth but also in the adjacent teeth.
Complex Restorations: If decay or damage occurs, restoring these teeth can be challenging. The location and limited accessibility can complicate even straightforward dental procedures. In severe cases, treatments such as root canal therapy or even extraction of the damaged adjacent tooth may become necessary.
Cysts: Wisdom teeth develop in a sac within the jawbone, which can fill with fluid and form a cyst that can damage the jawbone, teeth, and nerves.
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