Getting wisdom teeth removed used to be a right of passage for many young teens. However, today, some people are beginning to wonder if removal of wisdom teeth is… well… wise. If you’ve been uncertain about having your wisdom teeth extracted, you deserve to know all the reasons for this safe, common oral surgery in Plymouth, MA.
When to Keep Your Wisdom Teeth
Let’s begin by explaining that wisdom teeth don’t always have to be removed. A dentist will not recommend that you visit an oral surgeon for wisdom tooth extraction unless the treatment is necessary.
For instance, some people have enough room in their mouths for their wisdom teeth to grow in naturally. In this case, the wisdom teeth pose no problems. Consequently, they can remain in the mouth.
When to Consider Having Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Of course, not everyone is lucky enough to have wisdom teeth that erupt perfectly and fit right in with the rest of the teeth. Many individuals wind up with problems related to their wisdom teeth that necessitate removal. These can include:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth are impacted, they can cause pain, swelling, infections, and severe tooth crowding. Plenty of teens and adults with impacted wisdom teeth are more vulnerable to getting tooth decay in and around the site of partially erupted wisdom teeth.
Orthodontic Treatments: Dentists and orthodontists frequently recommend wisdom tooth removal in patients receiving orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign clear aligners or traditional bracket-and-metal braces. Without the wisdom teeth, patients tend to have more room in their mouths to realign the teeth in a normal, functional way.
Gum Disease: All dentists and oral surgeons in Plymouth and Sandwich, MA agree that any smile problems that lead to worsening gum disease need to be addressed. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can become a primary location for bacteria to build up in the mouth, potentially fostering an environment where gum disease can take hold. By removing the wisdom teeth, individuals can lower their risk of developing progressive gum disease.
Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Safe?
Wondering if wisdom tooth removal is the right choice? As long as you have your wisdom teeth removed by a respected oral surgeon like Dr. William F. Lane, you can feel confident about making the right decision.
A graduate of Harvard University and other prestigious institutes of higher education, Dr. Lane has spent his career studying advanced methods of oral surgery including the safest tooth extraction procedures. He’s passionate about his work and spends time upfront making sure all patients understand what to expect from any service, including wisdom tooth extraction.
Interested in finding out if your wisdom teeth should stay or go? Make an appointment to meet with Dr. Lane at Lane Oral Surgery in Sandwich or Plymouth, MA. Call (508) 273-2213 (our office in Plymouth, MA) or (508) 591-8605 (our office in Sandwich, MA) right away.
