When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

There was a time when wisdom teeth were considered quite valuable. They provided additional chewing power that helped reduce wear and tear on other teeth. In ancient times, they helped people consume a rougher diet. However, today, they bring along many issues that necessitate their removal.

One of the primary reasons for wisdom teeth extractions is impaction. When there isn’t enough space for these molars to grow properly, they become impacted, leading to pain, swelling, and potential damage to neighboring teeth.

When to Consider Removal

Age as a Factor

Many dentists recommend considering wisdom teeth surgery in Portsmouth between the ages of 17 and 25, as this is the typical timeframe for their eruption. At this stage, the roots are not fully formed, making extraction potentially less complicated and the recovery faster.

Assessment of Tooth Development: Dentists assess the development and positioning of wisdom teeth through X-rays. These images help determine if the molars will likely cause future problems.

Symptoms of Impaction: Paying attention to symptoms such as pain, swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth could indicate issues with wisdom teeth.

Preventive Removal: Some individuals opt for preventive removal before any issues arise. This approach is usually recommended if there’s a high likelihood of future problems based on X-ray assessments and the person’s oral health history.

Removal Procedure

The dentist first evaluates the patient’s oral health, takes X-rays to assess the wisdom teeth development, and discusses the need for removal. Depending on the complexity of the extraction and the patient’s preference, the procedure may be done under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience.

In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal is a routine dental procedure that helps prevent or alleviate potential issues associated with the emergence of third molars. Although the process may seem daunting, advancements in dental care and technology have made it a relatively straightforward and safe experience for many.

A quick search online of “oral surgeon near me” will lead you to Coastal Periodontics. Schedule your wisdom tooth extraction appointment today by visiting our website or calling 603-427-8383.