Sarcee Family Dental
What are Wisdom Teeth and Why Might They Need to be Removed?
Wisdom teeth are the last and final set of molars to appear, typically emerging between ages 14 and 25, although some people never get them in at all. Problematic wisdom teeth can lead to tooth decay, ear and jaw pain, bite issues, gum disease, infection, swelling and loss of adjacent molars if left untreated.
Limited space in the mouth often hinders wisdom teeth from growing properly, which often presents various challenges and complications. Partial eruption, where wisdom teeth only partially emerge through the gums, can cause crowding, gum infections, cavities and significant discomfort. Additionally, wisdom teeth may grow at an angle, causing crowding and potential damage or loss to neighboring molars. Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is not enough room for proper eruption, leading the teeth to become trapped in the gums and promoting bacterial growth, which can result in painful gum infections.
Fortunately, dental professionals can often anticipate potential issues with the wisdom teeth early on, and may recommend proactive removal before complications arise. This preventive approach helps avoid the need for more complex and costly surgical procedures down the road.