Is it time to get my/my kids wisdom teeth extracted?

Many people expect to need their wisdom teeth removed between the age of 17 and 25. As the wisdom teeth try to erupt through the gums, they can get stuck or impacted and affect surrounding, healthy, and straight teeth. Most people won’t feel or notice a thing when wisdom teeth begin to erupt and many dentists and orthodontists remove wisdom teeth before they create problems later on. As we age, our bones become denser, and teeth are harder to remove.

Some patients are born without wisdom teeth – and most people’s mouths are too small for an extra 4 teeth. But how do you know if you have wisdom teeth and when it’s time to get them extracted?
• A dental x-ray shows them about to erupt and push around other teeth, causing bite issues or mouth pain.
• You are experiencing consistent bad breath. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and cause bad breath.
• Issues with the wisdom teeth can cause sinus pain, pressure, or congestion.
• The area around wisdom teeth can become swollen and inflamed and become harder to clean.
• The nearby teeth are forming cavities.
• Wisdom teeth may contribute to shifting and crowding of your teeth

In addition to causing bite problems or pain, wisdom teeth can undo the effects of braces or other dental work. It’s best to extract them before they cause problems. Typically, all four wisdom teeth will be removed, but this will depend on how many you have and how well they will fit in the mouth.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

Typically, wisdom teeth removal takes less than an hour. You’ll receive anesthesia and may feel groggy after surgery. The gums will be closed with stitches, which will dissolve in a few days. You’ll be prescribed painkillers and many people return to work or normal activities in a few days.

If you live in Charles County or St. Mary’s County, Maryland and think you may need wisdom teeth extraction, Sequence Orthodontics, conveniently located in Waldorf and Leonardtown, offers advanced comprehensive orthodontic care provided by experienced specialists. Contact our office for an orthodontic consultation and evaluation to determine if your wisdom teeth may be creating a possible orthodontic problem such as crowding.