The Journey to Healthy Wisdom Teeth: What You Need To Know

March 25, 2024

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can make their appearance between the ages of 17 and 21. As they emerge towards the back of your mouth, you might wonder whether or not they're going to cause any issues. After all, our prehistoric ancestors had larger jaws that could easily accommodate these latecomers. But in modern times, our human jaw has evolved to be smaller due to changes in diet and brain size.

Why Do Some Wisdom Teeth Need Extraction?

While some people might have no problems with their wisdom teeth, others can experience issues such as pain, infection, cysts, tumors, damage to adjacent teeth, gum disease, or extensive tooth decay. This is often because our smaller jaws have limited space for the third molars, increasing the likelihood of these problems.

Classifying Impaction Types

If a wisdom tooth remains partially or fully submerged under gum tissue or bone and is unable to erupt into position, it's considered impacted. Depending on the type of impaction, we may classify them differently:

  • Soft tissue impaction: The wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue.
  • Bony impaction: The wisdom tooth is obstructed by bone, either entirely or partially.

The Challenges of Keeping Wisdom Teeth Clean and Healthy

Due to their location in the back of your mouth, wisdom teeth are difficult to keep clean. This makes them more susceptible to bacterial accumulation, dental disease, and infection. To help mitigate these risks, our office may recommend extracting third molars.

Wisdom Teeth and Potential Health Issues

In rare cases, wisdom teeth can contribute to the formation of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth. These problems could lead to extensive damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth. Our office will closely monitor the development, location, and health of your unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth during regular checkups.

When Extractions are Recommended

At our practice, we often recommend extractions for potentially problematic wisdom teeth before a painful or complex emergency arises. We also provide prompt treatment and recommend extractions as needed if symptoms and problems develop.

When you visit our office, our dedicated staff will work with you to ensure your comfort and understanding throughout the entire process. Our priority is to help you maintain optimal oral health, so you can continue enjoying a healthy, beautiful smile.

Make a Difference in Your Oral Health Today

If you're experiencing pain or other issues related to your wisdom teeth, don't hesitate to reach out. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate these challenges and keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Stamford Office

23 Hoyt Street, Suite 2
Stamford, CT 06905
New Patients: (203) 364-5081
Existing Patients: (203) 327-6717
Monday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Wednesday
9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

Bridgeport Office

3738 Park Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06604
New Patients: (203) 916-5539
Existing Patients: (203) 549-9099
Monday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
7:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sunday
Closed