Wisdom Teeth in Kettering

The final teeth to erupt into the mouth are the third molars, which are more commonly known as the wisdom teeth. They begin to erupt sometime between the ages of 15 and 22.

For some, there is adequate room for the teeth to erupt and function normally. In this scenario, wisdom teeth don't need to be removed.

There are many reasons why wisdom teeth might be recommended for removal and some of these reasons happen without the teeth ever erupting:

• Impacted wisdom teeth might develop a cyst.
• Impacted wisdom teeth can grow in many different directions. Sometimes this can cause damage to the teeth in front of them including bone loss and decay.
• Wisdom teeth that fail to erupt completely are often difficult to clean. Over time the inability to properly clean these teeth leads to decay in the tooth or infection in the gum from bacteria or food that accumulates around the partially erupted tooth.
• Wisdom teeth are also removed at the request of an orthodontist who is concerned that the incoming molars will cause other teeth to move.

In order to evaluate the risks and rewards of treatment, a panorex radiograph is taken, allowing the dentist to evaluate the wisdom teeth and monitor them as they develop throughout the teen years. In adults, wisdom tooth removal is often recommended due to the patient's inability to properly maintain them, resulting in extensive gum disease or decay.

After a complete exam you and the dentist will discuss the options for care. Wisdom tooth removal recovery varies upon the difficulty of the extractions; however, you will leave the appointment with complete post-operative care instructions.

Watch this video on wisdom teeth to learn more:

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