Why Your Wisdom Teeth Might Need Professional Attention

Did you know that the issues you might face with your third molars could be linked to human evolutionary development? As our diets have changed and our brains have grown larger, our jaws have become smaller. This has led to a situation where there isn't always enough room for all of our teeth, especially the last ones to develop: the wisdom teeth.

Because they are the last permanent teeth to emerge in the oral cavity and the final ones to come into place, the wisdom teeth are the most prone to problems. In some cases, they do not have sufficient space to erupt, become impacted, exhibit abnormal development, or cause issues for the adjacent teeth and surrounding tissues. According to statistics from the American Dental Association, approximately 85% of people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed.

Most individuals develop four wisdom teeth. However, there are cases where people do not develop any wisdom teeth at all, or they may develop fewer than four, and even rare situations where individuals develop extra ones. Unless they are impacted, the third molars generally emerge through the gums at the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 21 years. Since this period coincides with the transition from teen years into adulthood, a time of life known as the "Age of Wisdom," these teeth are commonly referred to as the "wisdom teeth."

A wisdom tooth is considered impacted when it remains submerged under gum tissue or bone and cannot erupt into position. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions can be classified in a few different ways. If a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue, it's known as a soft tissue impaction. If a wisdom tooth is completely or partially obstructed by bone, it's referred to as a bony impaction.

At the office of Black Mountain Family Dentistry, we closely monitor our patients' dental health at every checkup visit. Our examination includes checking the development, location, and health of the wisdom teeth, the adjacent teeth, and the surrounding tissues. If your wisdom teeth have room to erupt into place, align correctly, do not have large cavities, and do not cause damage to the adjacent teeth or tissues, extractions may not be necessary. If we recommend wisdom teeth extractions, we may perform the procedure in our office or make a referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Each case is unique, and our recommendations will depend on your specific situation.

If you're concerned about potential issues with your wisdom teeth, don't hesitate to reach out to us at the office of Black Mountain Family Dentistry. Our dedicated staff is always ready to help you understand your dental health and make informed decisions about your oral care.