Wisdom Teeth & Extractions
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge at the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. They're called "wisdom teeth" because they appear later in life, when a person is considered more mature.
Wisdom teeth can cause several problems, especially if they don't have enough space to grow in properly. Some common issues include:
Impaction: Wisdom teeth can become trapped in the jawbone or gums, leading to pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted teeth can also push against adjacent teeth, causing damage.
Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create an opening in the gums where bacteria can enter, leading to gum infections, also known as pericoronitis.
Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them harder to clean. This can lead to a higher risk of cavities and decay in both the wisdom teeth and neighbouring teeth.
Gum Disease: The difficulty in cleaning wisdom teeth can also lead to gum disease, which can affect not just the wisdom teeth but also the surrounding areas.
4. Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts or tumors in the jaw, which can damage the surrounding bone and teeth.
To avoid these potential problems, dentists often advise removing wisdom teeth, even if they aren't currently causing discomfort. While recovery can involve some pain and swelling, complications are rare.
Having removed hundreds of wisdom teeth over the years, Wisdom teeth are generally easier to remove in younger patients for several reasons:
Root Development: In younger patients, the roots of the wisdom teeth are not fully developed, making them easier to remove. Fully developed roots in older patients are longer and more firmly anchored in the jawbone, which can make extraction more difficult and increase the risk of complications.
Bone Flexibility: The jawbone in younger individuals is typically softer and more flexible, which allows for easier removal of teeth. As people age, the jawbone becomes denser and less pliable, making the extraction process more challenging.
Healing and Recovery: Younger patients tend to heal faster and experience fewer complications during recovery. Their bodies are generally more resilient, which can lead to a smoother and quicker recovery process after the extraction.
Less Risk of Complications: Younger patients are less likely to have developed issues like cysts, tumors, or significant impaction around the wisdom teeth. The surrounding tissue is often healthier and more adaptable, reducing the likelihood of complications during and after surgery.
Preventive Care: Removing wisdom teeth at a younger age can prevent future dental problems. If wisdom teeth are extracted before they cause significant issues, the procedure tends to be simpler and less invasive.
For these reasons, your dentist may recommend that wisdom teeth be removed in the late teens or early twenties, before the roots are fully developed and potential problems arise.