When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to grow in your mouth. While some people have no problems with their molars, others need oral surgery to remove them. Dr. Robert M. Taylor III recommends removing wisdom teeth if they cause pain, infection, or damage to the surrounding teeth due to impaction or cysts and tumors. Taking them out can also help patients prepare for orthodontic treatment.

So, what is an impacted tooth, and how can surgery help? At Robert M. Taylor III, DDS, we can answer all your questions and provide personalized care. Call to schedule an appointment in Bay City, MI, and let us help address your wisdom tooth pain today.

What is an impacted tooth?

You may have heard the phrase before, but what is an impacted tooth? An impacted tooth happens when a tooth does not fully emerge from the gums. This can happen for several reasons, such as a lack of space in the mouth or an abnormal angle of eruption. Unfortunately, an impacted wisdom tooth can cause a wide range of dental problems. You may need to book a dental exam so Dr. Taylor can assess the situation.

How can surgery help?

In most cases, oral surgery is the best option possible for removing wisdom teeth and preserving oral health. During the procedure, Dr. Taylor will make a small incision in your gums. The tooth may need to be extracted in pieces if it is too large or difficult to remove as a whole. Once removed, stitches may be necessary to close the incision and promote healing.

Reasons for removing wisdom teeth

There are several reasons to consider wisdom tooth removal in Bay City, MI, including:

• Pain and discomfort: You may experience wisdom tooth pain if the impacted tooth pushes against other teeth or grows in a crooked angle.
• Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are harder to clean, leading to bacteria buildup and risk of infection. This can also result in swollen and painful gums.
• Damage to other teeth: As impacted wisdom teeth push against the molars, they can cause damage or overcrowding.
• Cysts: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth may lead to cysts or tumors, which could have serious consequences for your oral health.
• Orthodontic concerns: If you have braces or are planning to get them, wisdom teeth can interfere with alignment and compromise the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment.

Will I need to get wisdom tooth removal?

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed through oral surgery. Some people have enough space in their mouths for their molars to emerge without causing any issues. However, it is always ideal to consult with a professional like Dr. Taylor if you have wisdom tooth pain or any of the above issues. Our dental team can determine the course of action for your situation.

In addition, regular dental check-ups at Robert M. Taylor III, DDS, can help monitor the growth and development of wisdom teeth and determine if extraction is necessary. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns. We are here to help keep your smile healthy and virtually pain-free.

Discuss your options with our team

At Robert M. Taylor III, DDS, we understand that any kind of pain can negatively impact your oral health. Dr. Robert M. Taylor III is here to provide custom care and help you make informed decisions about your third molars. If you have questions about wisdom tooth removal, call Robert M. Taylor III, DDS. We look forward to seeing you in Bay City, MI.