Generally, tooth extractions are a last resort. When it comes to wisdom teeth, however, many patients benefit from their removal. In this blog post, we’ll explore the topic of wisdom teeth and help you understand why you might need these teeth removed.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are third molars that grow in much later than the rest of your teeth. When you’re older and wiser—hence the name! Usually, they make their appearance between 17 to 25 years of age. If you have them, you can develop one, two, three, or four wisdom teeth. They were useful for our ancestors to grind down and chew tough foods, but modern-day wisdom teeth often cause problems.
Potential Problems with Wisdom Teeth
So, why might you need your wisdom teeth removed? Once they begin to grow in, there are a number of problems they can cause. Over time, human jaws have gotten smaller, with few patients able to comfortably accommodate 32 teeth. As a result, the late-blooming wisdom teeth can cause crowding that can seriously shift your smile. Crooked wisdom teeth can also cause: infection; damage to surrounding teeth; bone loss at the tooth root; and tight teeth that hinder brushing and flossing (thereby increasing the risk of decay, cavities, and gum disease).
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Las Cruces, NM
If you’re noticing that your wisdom teeth are beginning to emerge, or if you have a teenager, let’s talk about your options! Here at Las Cruces Dental Solutions, we recommend considering removal if the teeth are coming in improperly or aren’t fully emerging. The procedure is straightforward and routine, and it beats the painful consequences that problematic wisdom teeth can bring.
Our modern dental office has relaxing amenities, experienced dentists, and COVID-19 safety precautions in place to put you at ease.
If you’re ready to get your third molars removed, contact us to schedule a consultation so we can take a look.
