Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, they begin to appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While some individuals have no issues with their wisdom teeth, many experience complications that necessitate removal. Delaying wisdom tooth removal is not recommended, as postponing the procedure can lead to more serious dental problems. Here’s why timely removal is essential for maintaining your oral health.
Prevent Crowding and Misalignment
Wisdom teeth often lack sufficient space to emerge properly, leading to crowding and misalignment of the surrounding teeth. This can undo years of orthodontic work and result in the need for additional treatment to correct the alignment of your teeth. Early removal of wisdom teeth can prevent these issues and help maintain the results of previous dental work.
Avoid Impacted Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the teeth are trapped beneath the gum line or grow at an angle. This can cause additional pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted teeth can also damage adjacent teeth and lead to cysts or tumors in the jaw. Removing wisdom teeth before they become impacted can prevent these serious complications.
Reduce the Risk of Infection
Partially erupted wisdom teeth create an opening for bacteria to infect the gums. This can lead to pericoronitis, can cause severe pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. In some cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, posing a risk to your overall health. Timely removal of wisdom teeth can reduce the risk of infection and related health issues.
Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean effectively. As a result, they are more vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. The presence of wisdom teeth can also complicate the cleaning process for adjacent teeth, increasing the risk of dental problems. Removing wisdom teeth can make oral hygiene easier and more effective, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease.
Alleviate Pain and Discomfort
Wisdom teeth can cause persistent pain and discomfort as they try to emerge. This can interfere with daily activities such as eating, speaking, and sleeping. By removing wisdom teeth promptly, you can alleviate pain and improve your overall quality of life.
Facilitate a Smoother Recovery
Younger patients generally recover more quickly and with fewer complications from wisdom tooth removal compared to older ones. As the bones and roots are still developing, making the extraction process easier and less invasive. Delaying the procedure can result in a more complex surgery and a longer, complex recovery period.
Identify Issues Early
Regular dental check-ups with our Los Angeles and Larchmont dentist allows for early detection of potential problems with your wisdom teeth. X-rays can reveal their position and development, enabling proactive planning for removal before complications arise. Early intervention can prevent more serious issues and simplify the extraction process.
Delaying wisdom tooth removal can lead to a host of dental problems, from pain and infection to misalignment and decay. At Shervin Louie, DDS, we recommend timely removal of wisdom teeth to protect your oral health and reduce the risk of additional complications. If you’ve been advised to remove your wisdom teeth or are experiencing symptoms, contact our team today to schedule a consultation.