When To Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars found in the far corners of your mouth. Sometimes wisdom teeth can be a healthy and valuable asset to the mouth, however, most often they create a series of oral health problems. 

Why should I remove my wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are removed for the following reasons:

• Your teeth are impacted. Because wisdom teeth are at the back of your mouth, there is much less room for them to grow. They often become trapped in the jawbone or gums and produce mouth pain and bite problems.
• Your teeth are misaligned. Wisdom teeth have a tendency to come in crooked or on the wrong angle. When your teeth become misaligned, they create additional pressure and tension against the other healthy teeth in your mouth.
• You have a small mouth. Our mouth is often not big enough to compensate for a final set of molars. This is also known to create discomfort, pain and bite problems. 
• You have developed cavities or gum disease. It is common to develop cavities or gum disease because these teeth are difficult to reach when brushing or flossing.

When is it time to get my wisdom teeth removed?

Early adulthood is the best time to have your wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth naturally develop and appear in your late teens or early twenties (between the ages of 17 and 25).

During your routine check-up and cleaning, our team of hygienists and dentists will keep an eye out for your wisdom teeth. Because we keep an accurate and detailed record of your visits, including x-rays, we can easily monitor and assess the state of your teeth and determine the best time to have them removed.

What happens if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth?

It is important to get your wisdom teeth removed before they can create problems. The following complications may occur if you wait too long to get your wisdom teeth removed: 

• Bacterial infection (also known as pericoronitis) may occur when a wisdom tooth has partially erupted.
• Tumors and cysts can develop around the wisdom tooth, which will later lead to damaged jawbone and surrounding gum tissue.
• Tooth decay or gum disease is likely to occur because wisdom teeth are hard to reach with a toothbrush or floss.
• Damaged neighbouring teeth is normal when a crooked wisdom tooth disrupts the mouth and causes the overall bite to change.

Wondering if you or a family member need their wisdom teeth removed?

If you’re wondering whether you or a family member need to have wisdom teeth removed, book an appointment with our clinic today.

Our experienced and highly-knowledgeable dentists and hygienists will examine your mouth, take x-rays and help determine when is the best time to remove your wisdom teeth.

Don’t be afraid to ask our team at Stoney Creek Village Dental about your wisdom teeth today. We’re here to help!