Wisdom teeth

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The term wisdom teeth refer to the third molars which usually erupt around the age of 18. They are the most variable teeth in size, shape, number and eruption pattern. Impacted wisdom teeth are the most common complications in oral health because they may hurt, develop cavities, infections around the gum, cause decays on the adjacent teeth, and worsen tooth crowding, which are irreversible damage.

Extraction is the most common recommendations for wisdom teeth. This should be done prior any irreversible damage or even problems. This is simple mathematics. If you have your wisdom teeth removed prior to having any problem, you only have the extraction. If you are having problems or have had problems, you still need removal and you have problems + extraction.

The best age to have them removed is around 17 years of age, at which the roots are usually not mature and the bone around them is relatively softer. Quite often, the roots of wisdom teeth sit right on the nerves that provide sensation to the lip and teeth. Removing mature roots has larger chances of damaging these nerves, which may not be the end of the world, but is always not preferable. Fortunately, for most people, wisdom tooth removal is a one time thing in the life. And as soon as they are removed, you can forget them for the rest of your life.

Wisdom teeth continue to grow in the rest of people’s lives. I’ve seen them erupting in people over 60 years of age. If you missed the best age, the 2nd best age to have them removed is sooner better than later. You don’t want to leave them until you are 80 years old.

Wisdom tooth extraction is a moderate surgery that can be done in the dental office. Many people choose to be sedated because they don’t want to have such experience.