Should I remove my wisdom teeth?

The wisdom teeth, or third molars, are commonly known to become problematic for many patients. This is why the team at Smile Texas may recommend that Sugar Land, TX area patients proactively remove wisdom teeth. These teeth often erupt through the smile in the late teen years or young adulthood and may require additional care. Read on to learn more about the benefits of wisdom tooth removal.

Why might a patient consider the removal of wisdom teeth?

The team at Smile Texas describe the following benefits of removing wisdom teeth from the smile before they become problematic:

• Impacted teeth can be painful. When wisdom teeth are unable to erupt through the gumline and become stuck, they can cause chronic pain and discomfort until they are surgically removed.
• Wisdom teeth may harm other teeth. Impacted teeth can grow sideways and push against the surrounding molars. This can cause damage to the wisdom tooth and the surrounding teeth. Additionally, if the wisdom teeth do erupt through the smile, their location in the back of the mouth can be difficult to reach and keep clean, contributing to an increased risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease.
• Overcrowding of the existing teeth. Patients who have undergone orthodontic treatment to straighten their smile may want to proactively remove the wisdom teeth before they erupt. They can cause misalignment and overcrowding which can impact the results of previous work.

How are wisdom teeth extracted?

The type of extraction will vary depending on the current situation. A wisdom tooth that has already erupted through the gumline can be removed with a simple extraction which is done with local anesthetics and just a few minutes in the dental chair. Alternatively, if a wisdom tooth is impacted or stuck underneath the gums, surgical extraction is required. This is a more invasive procedure that requires longer healing and recovery time but allows for the removal of the teeth before they become an issue.

How do I learn more about wisdom tooth removal?

The team at Smile Texas in Sugar Land is here to provide a wide selection of services, including both simple and surgical extractions. If you live in the community and want to work with Drs. Rick Kline and Bret Davis, contact our practice today by calling (281) 265-7645. Our facility is conveniently located at 4665 Sweetwater Boulevard, Suite #450.