Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically develop between the ages of 17 and 25. While these teeth don’t always cause issues, they can lead to discomfort, misalignment, or other oral health concerns, often making extraction necessary. At West Somerville Dental in Somerville, MA office, we provide expert wisdom teeth extractions to help prevent future complications and ensure a comfortable experience.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn if wisdom teeth extraction is the right solution for you.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. While some people experience no problems, others may face issues due to a lack of space or misalignment. Extraction is often recommended in such cases to avoid complications.
- Most people develop four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth.
- Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to appear.
- They can become impacted, meaning they don’t fully erupt from the gums.
- Overcrowding and misalignment can occur when there isn’t enough room for these teeth.
Reasons For A Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction may be necessary for several reasons, including:
- Impacted teeth: When wisdom teeth are trapped beneath the gums, they can lead to discomfort, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth.
- Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth may push against other teeth, causing misalignment and orthodontic concerns.
- Cavities and gum disease: Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are harder to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted
Certain symptoms can indicate the need for wisdom teeth extraction:
- Swelling or discomfort: Pain or tenderness in the back of your mouth may suggest that wisdom teeth are pushing against other teeth or gums.
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste: Bacteria can build up around partially erupted wisdom teeth, causing bad breath or a persistent bad taste.
- Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause discomfort when chewing or make it hard to fully open your mouth.
- Teeth shifting or crowding: As wisdom teeth emerge, they may push against other teeth, causing crowding or misalignment.
If you notice any of these signs, a consultation can determine if extraction is needed to prevent further issues.
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
Following your wisdom tooth extraction, it’s important to follow the provided aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. The process typically involves:
- Using cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or crunchy items for the first few days.
- Resting and avoiding strenuous activities to promote healing.
- Keeping the extraction site clean and following prescribed oral hygiene practices.
Most patients recover fully within a week, and our team will be available to guide you through the recovery process.
Seamless Wisdom Tooth Removal, Comfortable Recovery
When it comes to wisdom teeth extraction, you want care you can trust. Our team in Somerville, MA provides expert, compassionate care, making your experience as seamless as possible from start to finish. With a focus on your comfort and long-term oral health, you can rest assured that your procedure will be handled with precision and care. Ready to address your wisdom teeth concerns?
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.