What Are Wisdom Teeth?
The last molars to erupt in the back of your mouth are commonly known as the third molars, or Wisdom Teeth. They are called wisdom teeth because they usually begin coming in between the ages of 17 to 21 – often considered the “coming of age” in a person’s life. Normally an adult will have four wisdom teeth, but some adults have more and some have less.
How Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted?
The term impacted related to a Wisdom Tooth means “trapped” in the jaw bone due to how it is developing or has developed in the jaw. This “impaction” may be a source of pain and may also lead to infection. The wisdom tooth itself may also crowd or damage the molar next to it and its roots, or damage the jaw bone and its nerves. When the wisdom tooth grows toward adjacent teeth, it can trap plaque and debris making your teeth more vulnerable to decay. As people age, wisdom teeth often become problematic. Did you know that approximately 85% of wisdom teeth need to be removed?
How Easy is it to Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
The ease of wisdom teeth removal depends on the position of the tooth and root development. A wisdom tooth that has fully emerged through the gum can be as easily extracted as any other tooth. However, a wisdom tooth that is underneath the gums and has pushed its way into the jawbone will require more time and attention.
Most wisdom teeth extractions require local anesthesia (being awake). Local anesthesia is an injection to numb the gum around the tooth being extracted. General anesthesia (being asleep), which AXIS Dental Group also offers, may be used to help ease any anxieties you may have. We will recommend the best treatment option for your specific needs and comfort. Learn more about local anesthesia (being awake) and general anesthesia (being asleep).
We have been helping patients with impacted wisdom teeth for 20+ years. Do you live or work in Avondale, Bramalea, Central Park, Credit Valley, Clairville Fletcher’s Meadow, Fletcher’s Creek Village, Gore Industrial, Heart Lake, Madoc, North, South, East, West or Downtown Brampton, Northwood Park, Snelgrove, Sandringham-Wellington, Westgate, Northgate, Southgate, or the Vales of Castlemore? AXIS Dental Group is close by and ready to help you deal with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.
Ready to learn more about wisdom teeth extraction? Contact us today.
