As a dentist in San Diego, Dr. Lozano often gets asked the question, “Why should I have my wisdom teeth removed?” The answer is not always simple, as each individual’s situation is unique. However, there are some common benefits to having your wisdom teeth extracted that we would like to share.
There are many reasons why having your wisdom teeth removed can be beneficial, including:
Prevention of Crowding: Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Often, there is not enough space in the mouth for these teeth to properly align with the rest of the teeth, which can cause crowding, impaction, or damage the adjacent teeth. By removing these teeth, you can prevent crowding that can lead to misaligned teeth, TMJ issues, bite problems, and other issues.
Reduction of Infection Risk: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, which can increase the risk of infection. In some cases, the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and even abscesses. By removing the wisdom teeth, our San Diego dentist can help you reduce the risk of infection and improve overall oral health.
Avoidance of Gum Disease: Even if your wisdom teeth do not cause crowding or infection, they can still be difficult to clean properly. Or maybe they only partially erupt through the gums. This can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, which can eventually cause gum disease. Removing your wisdom teeth can help prevent gum disease and keep your gums healthy so that adjacent teeth don’t get infected.
Prevention of Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth can form large cysts around them. These growths can cause damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth, and may require more extensive treatment if left untreated. By removing your wisdom teeth, you can prevent the formation of cysts and tumors and protect your overall oral health.
If left untreated, wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems, including:
1. Pain and Discomfort: Wisdom teeth can cause pain and discomfort as they push through the gums. This can be especially true if the teeth are impacted, meaning they are stuck below the gumline.
2. Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are almost always at a higher risk of tooth decay, whether they fully erupt or are only partially erupted, as food and bacteria can become trapped beneath the gumline.
3. Gum Disease: As mentioned, wisdom teeth can contribute to the development of periodontal disease which may spread to neighboring teeth. This can be due to the difficulty of properly cleaning these teeth and the increased risk of infection.
4. Damage to Other Teeth: Wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth as they try to erupt, causing physical damage to these teeth. In some cases, this damage can be severe enough that it results in tooth death.
At RB Dental Excellence in San Diego, CA, we understand that having your wisdom teeth removed can be a big decision to make. However, we strive to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Dr. Lozano does offer a variety of sedation options to ensure that you are relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure, and our team is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to your wisdom teeth, or if you are concerned about the potential problems that may arise if you leave your wisdom teeth in place, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team. We can evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of action for your unique needs.
Experiencing wisdom tooth pain? If you are concerned about potential problems in your or your teen’s wisdom teeth, we encourage you to contact RB Dental Excellence to schedule a consultation. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best possible care in the Rancho Bernardo area!
Testimonials
