Wisdom Teeth

Why Should I Remove My Wisdom Teeth?

The form of the human face and jaws has developed over thousands of years. At this point in history, we find a mis-match between the size of our jaws, and the size & number of our teeth. Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth and accommodating space within the jaws is often lacking. When they align properly and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth may not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. Even when wisdom teeth erupt through the gum tissue they rarely provide any meaningful function and are always difficult to keep clean.

Poorly positioned and impacted wisdom teeth can cause many problems. When they partially erupt through the gums, the opening (pocket) around the tooth traps food debris and allows bacteria to grow. Bad breath is one early result of this problem. Progression leads to infection, swelling, stiffness, pain, and illness. New scientific studies demonstrate a strong link between dental infections, gum tissue inflammation, and serious systemic problems. The byproducts of inflammation enter the bloodstream and are thought to contribute to the advancement of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, preterm births, and low birthweight infants. The presence of poorly positioned wisdom teeth can also cause bone loss and decay around the adjacent molar, as well as a disruption of the natural alignment of dentition. A rare but serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts develop around an impacted wisdom tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth.

Removal of poorly positioned wisdom teeth avoids potentially serious problems. As the extraction site heals, the tooth socket will fill in with solid bone and the overlying gum tissue will become healthy and strong. Early removal is recommended because the procedure is easier, complications are fewer, and healing will progress faster and more completely.

Removal

The removal of wisdom teeth can be performed under local anesthesia. Many patients prefer to have intravenous anesthesia so they can sleep comfortably through the procedure. These options as well as the surgical risks (e.g. sensory nerve injury) will be discussed with you before the procedure is performed. You will rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to be taken home. Upon discharge, your post-operative kit will include postoperative instructions, a prescription for pain medication, antibiotics (if necessary) and a follow-up appointment in one week. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 206.542.1313 or 800.672.0682.