Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed? Your 06708 Dentist Answers

Wisdom teeth can be controversial because there are different schools of thought on whether or not they should be removed. Wisdom teeth are the last of your teeth to arrive, if they do come in. Many people are born without wisdom teeth, and for some people they become impacted, or stuck beneath the gum line. If wisdom teeth do erupt, or come in, sometimes there’s not enough space for them and they begin to crowd your other teeth. They also may be harder to keep clean because they are so far back in your mouth. Your 06708 dentist discusses wisdom teeth removal in Waterbury.

When Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

There are many scenarios that warrant the removal of wisdom teeth. If they have not properly erupted and they are stuck beneath the gum line, your dentist will recommend that they be extracted in order to prevent future problems. Your dentist will be able to determine from your x-rays what type of position your wisdom teeth are in and if they may also come in crooked or at angle that is dangerous to your other teeth.

If your wisdom teeth do come in and there’s not enough space in your mouth for them they may begin to crowd your other teeth and cause them to shift. This may also be a time to have them removed. They can ruin previous orthodontic work and cause your bite to become misaligned, which puts you at higher risk for periodontal disease, fractures and a painful jaw disorder known as TMJ.

If your wisdom teeth erupt and you’re not able to reach them to brush and floss them regularly your dentist may also recommend that they be extracted. If you can’t clean them properly, wisdom teeth put you at a higher risk for bacteria build up, which leads to gum disease and tooth decay. Your surrounding teeth are also at a higher risk for damage in this case.

When Can Wisdom Teeth Stay?

If your wisdom teeth come in normally, and there is enough room in your mouth to support them, then there’s no need to extract them. It is very important, however to be diligent about their care and keeping them clean. Because they are far back and hard to reach, you may have a harder time brushing and flossing them. Regular dental visits will help to maintain them and your dentist can effectively monitor their health.

At Waterbury Smiles, Dr. Marini and Dr. Mancini have been helping patients with their wisdom teeth for decades. With an x-ray and examination they can help you determine whether or not your wisdom teeth need to be extracted and they can take care of almost all cases in the comfort of their own office, so you’ll be surrounded by a team that you know and trust. If you think you may need wisdom teeth extractions in Waterbury, contact our office and schedule your consultation today.