Why Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
May 17, 2017
Wisdom teeth are molars and are located in the back of the mouth. They usually erupt from the gums between the ages of 17 and 25, but they can erupt sooner or later than that. In some cases, they may not erupt at all! Many people choose tooth extraction for their wisdom teeth because the alternative is often pain and discomfort, but did you know that wisdom teeth can cause oral problems even if they aren’t painful? Here are a few reasons why you may need to seek advice, whether you have a painful or asymptomatic wisdom tooth.
Impacted Teeth
Wisdom teeth frequently become stuck in the jaw. Teeth that fail to erupt properly are called impacted teeth, and they can cause some complications for neighboring teeth, especially if they are positioned at an angle in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth can press into the roots or crowns of adjacent teeth, causing bite problems and dental pain.
Overcrowding
So, what if your wisdom teeth have fully erupted and aren’t causing any pain? In this case, you may be able to keep them! However, you should keep in mind that most people do not have enough room in their mouths for wisdom teeth, so failing to pull them out could lead to overcrowding. When teeth are overcrowded, they tend to become crooked, requiring tooth extraction and/or orthodontic treatments to straighten them.
Other Complications
Wisdom teeth have been known to cause sinus issues, inflamed gums and jaw damage. If you have nerve pain near your back molars or if you have noticed an increase in congestion, sinus pain and pressure, your wisdom teeth may be partially to blame.
Contact Us Today
Still not sure if it’s time to have your wisdom teeth removed? Let a qualified dentist help you make the right decision. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark Moskowitz by calling Springs Dental in Saratoga Springs, NY and find out if wisdom teeth removal is the right approach for your situation.