Clarifying a Few Things About Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Most people recognize the term wisdom teeth even if they’ve never had to deal with them. Unfortunately, the association is usually a negative one, as the molars are most well-known for the problems they can cause when they become impacted. For patients in El Paso, TX, who experience wisdom tooth impaction, or who wish to avoid it before it occurs, extracting the molars may be the best way to remove the threat they can pose.

Problems as they grow

Wisdom teeth are more formally known as third molars because they’re the third and final set of permanent molars to erupt. The problem is that humans typically don’t have enough room along their dental ridges to accommodate the four extra molars. Instead of developing and erupting straight next to second molars, wisdom teeth often become impacted due to the lack of room, becoming stuck within the jawbone and/or impeded by the nearby molar. This can lead to severe discomfort as the tooth continues to harm your jawbone structure and potentially harm the rest of your teeth.

The solution to the discomfort

Once wisdom teeth become impacted, extracting them is the only solution to alleviating the severe discomfort and eliminating the risks to the rest of your oral health. However, your dentist might also recommend extracting wisdom teeth before they have a chance to become impeded, saving you from the discomfort that they may cause. After a comprehensive examination, your dentist will consult with you to determine if extracting them pre-emptively is best for your long-term oral health.

Learn if wisdom tooth extraction is best

Whether your wisdom teeth are already a problem or you want to avoid any potential complications, wisdom tooth extraction may be your best option. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling the Sunny Smiles dental office nearest you in El Paso, TX, today! We have offices in the East, Northeast, and Westside of El Paso, and happily welcome patients from all nearby communities, including Chaparral, Canutillo, Vinton, and Sunland Park, New Mexico.