Wisdom Teeth: Everything You Need to Know

Wisdom Teeth: Everything You Need to Know

If you know people who have problems with their wisdom teeth, you may be worried about whether you will develop the same issues. This is a common concern, as oral health is important to your overall well-being. However, you can relieve your worrying by learning about what makes these teeth different, when they arrive and what signs might indicate you may have to have them extracted.

They Arrive Later Than Other Teeth

There are many reasons why you might have trouble with your wisdom teeth, but one of the most common reasons is that they come in during your late teens or early twenties. These teeth do not start to develop until just before puberty, which is why they come in later in life. However, this late arrival can cause crowding, misalignment of your other teeth as they erupt or nerve pain as they grow.

Impaction is Common

While most other teeth break through the gums with few problems as they develop, this final set of four molars may become impacted. This means that they grow to just under the surface of the gums but do not break through. Impacted wisdom teeth may cause the following problems, some of which may be dangerous:

• Infection
• Swollen gums
• Severe decay under the surface of the gums

If impaction occurs, your dentist may have to remove these teeth to prevent further problems.

You Can Choose to Have Them Removed

Some people choose to have this set of back molars removed if they are causing pain, but you may also choose to have them taken out before they be a problem. One of the most effective ways to know if they might be an issue is to have your dentist x-ray them. Once he or she can gauge their condition or position, steps to remove them can be taken.

Consult with Your Dentist

Talking with your dentist about your wisdom teeth can help you learn more about them and whether yours will need to be removed. The more you know, the better choices you can make for your oral health in the long term.

Call Us Today With Any Questions

The practice’s primary dentist, Dr. Catherine Dulay Lichtenstein, began practicing dentistry in 2009. While getting her dental degree she was awarded the Dr. William Starek Award for outstanding achievement in endodontics and the Dr. Donald McElroy Endodontic award for extra work in endodontics and professional behavior. With her knowledge and experience, Dr. Catherine Dulay Lichtenstein, and the entire dental staff are dedicated to providing high-quality dental care to patients of all ages. The dental office is equipped with the most up-to-date dental equipment and staffed with experienced dental professionals in order to help your children learn the importance of proper dental hygiene. Call us today for a free consultation (215) 874-0888.