What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third row of molars in your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, located in the back corners of your mouth on the top and bottom. Unlike your other teeth, wisdom teeth don’t come in until you’re in your teens or early 20s.

It’s common for wisdom teeth to be misaligned or crowded, putting your other teeth at risk for cavities, pain, and other problems.

The dentists at Alluna Dental usually identify the presence and positioning of your wisdom teeth via X-ray. Depending on your mouth and the positioning of your wisdom teeth, your dentist may recommend extraction even before any problems develop.

Do I need my wisdom teeth removed?

Many people need their wisdom teeth removed because of their location and positioning. If your wisdom teeth come in correctly, they can be an asset to you. However, your dentist may recommend that you have your wisdom teeth taken out if:

• Your wisdom teeth are impacted
• Your wisdom teeth come in at an angle
• Your mouth is too small
• You have gum disease or cavities

Wisdom teeth come in at the far back of your mouth, where your teeth may already be crowded. Impacted wisdom teeth, when they’re trapped in your jaw or gums, are common. Wisdom teeth may emerge at the wrong angle, pushing against your other teeth and causing pain.

Even if your wisdom teeth come in correctly, it can be hard to reach them with a toothbrush or dental floss, making them prone to cavities or disease.

How are wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth removal surgery should take about 45 minutes and Alluna Dental offers the procedure in the comfort of a modern office setting. Before your wisdom tooth removal, the team answers your questions and explains the procedure completely. Your dentist provides different types of anesthesia, from local to general, depending on the condition of your wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth surgery can require your dentist to cut into your gums or bone to remove the teeth; if so, they stitch all the wounds closed to encourage healing. During recovery, it’s important to follow directions to help your mouth heal properly.

If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain, it’s time to do something about it. Call the dentists at Alluna Dental today for a wisdom tooth consultation or book your appointment online.