Understanding Wisdom Teeth and Their Extraction
Wisdom teeth represent the last set of teeth to emerge in the human mouth. Typically, they appear during the late teens and early twenties, earning them the name “wisdom” teeth due to the age at which they usually surface. However, these teeth often grow misaligned, leading to various dental issues. At Hunsaker Dental, we specialize in wisdom teeth extraction procedures to address these concerns effectively.
Why Is Wisdom Teeth Extraction Necessary?
Our experienced dentist in Salem conducts thorough examinations of wisdom teeth to monitor their development. If we determine that the teeth may cause problems in the future, we will recommend extraction. Our primary focus remains on ensuring patient comfort and facilitating a smooth recovery after the procedure. Although wisdom teeth can enhance the quality of life when they emerge properly and align well, they frequently become misaligned or fail to emerge completely. This misalignment can lead to several complications, including:
Potential Problems from Misaligned Wisdom Teeth
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Misaligned wisdom teeth can exert pressure on neighboring teeth, leading to damage. They may grow towards, away from, or at an angle to the second molars, causing various alignment issues. - Damage to the Jawbone
Untreated misalignment can strain the jawbone, resulting in long-term damage. Additionally, a misaligned wisdom tooth can harm the nerves in the gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues, often resulting in significant pain. - Infection Under the Gums
Partially emerged wisdom teeth create pockets beneath the gum tissue, where bacteria can thrive. This situation increases the risk of serious and painful infections, as partially erupted teeth are challenging to clean.
Given these potential complications, extracting wisdom teeth early often proves to be a wise decision.
Why Are Regular Wisdom Teeth Inspections Necessary?
Dr. Travis Hunsaker and his dedicated Salem dental team encourage patients to schedule regular inspections of wisdom teeth during their teenage years. These inspections allow us to monitor the teeth’s development closely. We utilize X-rays and visual exams to track changes over time. Extracting wisdom teeth early offers several advantages. Since the roots take time to develop, early extraction simplifies the procedure and minimizes discomfort, as the roots are not yet firmly anchored in the jaw.
A Smooth Extraction Process
Salem wisdom teeth extractions are straightforward and manageable. Our dentist will provide a detailed explanation of the entire procedure to both you and your teen. We prioritize your teen’s comfort before, during, and after the extraction, ensuring a positive experience. If you would like to learn more about wisdom teeth extraction in Salem, please reach out to us at Hunsaker Dental. You can contact us through our website or visit one of our locations in Salem or Monmouth today! Don’t forget to visit our Facebook.