WISDOM TEETH & DENTAL EXTRACTIONS

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually develop in the mid-teenage years. Because there is often insufficient room for in the jaws to accommodate these teeth, the teeth are often times stuck in awkward positions and can have gum tissue and bone covering some or all of the teeth. This is what is referred to as impacted. The malposition of these teeth often causes future problems with infection, pain and affects on the health of the adjacent teeth. Often times your dentist will recommend removal of the wisdom teeth even when they are not painful. This is because the position of these teeth is such that you will likely have problems in the future. Addressing these issues early will prevent you from possible serious problems down the road and potential loss of functional adjacent teeth. Occasionally cysts and tumors will form around teeth that are unable to erupt, which is not uncommon for wisdom teeth. While these are usually benign lesions, they can be destructive and cause serious problems in the jaws and loss of otherwise healthy teeth. Oral & Maxillofacial surgeons specialize in wisdom tooth removal and in most cases can perform these procedures while you are asleep.