Do You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, known in dental terms as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. They are named wisdom teeth because they develop during a time when individuals are considered mature enough to possess wisdom. In early human history, these teeth played a crucial role due to a coarse diet that led to wear and tear on the earlier molars. However, modern diets have evolved, leading to smaller jaw sizes and less space for these teeth to emerge properly.
Why Wisdom Teeth Get Impacted
In many cases, wisdom teeth remain buried or partially emerge due to insufficient space in the jaw, leading to impaction. Statistics show an 18% to 30% prevalence of lower third molar impaction. Impaction occurs when a tooth fails to emerge in its functional position within the expected time, often because the jaw doesn’t accommodate it. While typically associated with wisdom teeth, impaction can also affect other teeth, such as canines.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Cause Problems?
If wisdom teeth fully emerge and are accessible for cleaning, they rarely cause issues. Problems arise when they become impacted or only partially erupt. Partially emerged wisdom teeth can lead to several issues, such as:
– Pericoronitis: This inflammation of the gums around the tooth can lead to pain, difficulty opening the mouth, and swallowing problems.
– Decay: Constant food lodgment near partially emerged wisdom teeth can cause decay in both the wisdom teeth and adjacent molars. Deep decay can result in infections that spread to the bone and soft tissues.
– Cysts: Rarely, these teeth can be associated with cysts that erode the jawbone.
Symptoms of Problematic Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth cause issues, common symptoms include:
– Pain and swelling around the tooth or face
– Difficulty opening the mouth
– Referred pain in the jaw, ears, or eyes
– Persistent discomfort due to decay or infection
These symptoms often necessitate wisdom teeth removal to alleviate ongoing pain and prevent further complications.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth removal is advised under several conditions, including:
– Recurrent episodes of pericoronitis
– Early signs of dental decay, especially in angled teeth that are hard to clean
– Need for orthodontic treatment, such as braces
– Association with dental cysts or other jaw lesions
The Role of X-rays in Wisdom Teeth Removal
X-rays are crucial for determining the position and angulation of impacted wisdom teeth. They help plan the surgery by revealing the anatomy of the tooth and surrounding bone. In cases where the tooth is near the jaw nerve, a dental CT scan may be needed to assess the exact relationship and ensure safe extraction.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: What to Expect
Wisdom teeth removal is generally performed under local anesthesia, effectively controlling pain. The procedure’s duration depends on the tooth’s position; upper wisdom teeth are typically easier to remove, while lower impacted ones may require 30-45 minutes of surgery. For those apprehensive about dental procedures, options such as sedation or general anesthesia are available to ensure comfort.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Potential Complications
After wisdom teeth removal, patients can expect mild to moderate facial swelling, discomfort, restricted mouth opening, and difficulty eating, typically lasting 4-5 days. Recovery usually takes about a week, with no restrictions on regular activities. Some rare complications include prolonged bleeding, dry socket, or temporary numbness affecting the lower lip and tongue if the nerve is involved.
Impact on Appearance and Chewing
Once healing is complete, wisdom teeth removal does not affect chewing efficiency or appearance. Instead, it often improves oral hygiene since the area becomes easier to clean without the presence of the wisdom teeth.
For more information, consult East Wind Dental Care at (503) 614-0198 or visit www.eastwinddentalcare.com. Our office is located at 7546 NE Shaleen St, Hillsboro, OR 97124.
East Wind Dental Care
Dental Implant placement in Hillsboro, Oregon, and Beaverton Oregon
family dentistry in Hillsboro
https://eastwinddentalcare.com
amily and Cosmetics Dentistry in Hillsboro, Oregon.
East Wind Dental Care Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon. We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health. When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Website: https://www.eastwinddentalcare.com
Dentist in Hillsboro, OR - East Wind Dental Care provides general dentistry in Hillsboro. Make your next family dentist appointment at East Wind Dental Care. General Dentistry, Preventative Dentistry, Pediatric (Kids!) Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Tooth Replacement. Crowns and Bridges, Dental Implants & Mini Dental Implants Dentures (with specialty), Complete denture, Partial Dentures.
East Wind Dental Care
Family and cosmetics dentistry in Hillsboro Oregon.
We at East Wind Dental Care are committed to providing quality dental care to families located in the Hillsboro and Beaverton area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful.
East Wind Dental Care at Hillsboro, Oregon provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, Teeth Whitening, Dental Veneers, Dentures, Dental Crowns and more. Our Dentist and expert staff are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro on the road to recovery and long term oral health.
When you walk into the office of East Wind Dental Care you will be immediately greeted by our friendly staff who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our staff will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At East Wind Dental Care we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area. Call East Wind Dental Care today at 503-614-0198 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland area.
East Wind Dental Care
Address: 7546 NE Shaleen St Hillsboro, OR 97124, USA
Phone: 503-614-0198 Call us today!
Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 17:00 and Saturdays with appointments.
Website: https://eastwinddentalcare.com/
Make an appointment online at https://eastwinddentalcare.com/contact-3/
