Though wisdom teeth erupt through the gum line between the ages of 17 and 25, most people simply don’t have the space in their jaws to accommodate them. Our West Michigan dentists can monitor the development of these teeth using X-rays and let you know when it’s time to pursue wisdom tooth extraction.

Learn more about having wisdom teeth taken out and when it’s necessary.

Why It’s Important to Remove Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom tooth removal is a common dental procedure recommended for various reasons. One of the most prevalent reasons is impaction, which occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to fully erupt and function properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at an angle or remain trapped beneath the gum line, leading to a range of potential problems.

You may have wisdom teeth that are impacted if:

  • You have pain or swelling in your jaw or face
  • Your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding
  • There’s a bad taste in your mouth or you have bad breath
  • It’s difficult to open your mouth all the way, i.e., pain and stiffness
  • You notice persistent pain in the back of your mouth when chewing or biting down
  • Headaches occur that worsen with chewing or biting
  • You have what feels like an earache (pain radiating into the ears)

Overcrowding is another concern that often results in pulling wisdom teeth. When there isn’t space to accommodate these extra molars, they can push against other teeth, causing misalignment and discomfort. This overcrowding can lead to issues with bite alignment, potentially requiring orthodontic treatment.

Wisdom teeth can also prove challenging to clean due to their location at the back of the mouth which can lead to dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and infections.

Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Taken Out?

Keep in mind that not everyone needs wisdom teeth extraction. If each tooth is coming in straight and your jaw is big enough, you may be able to keep your wisdom teeth. However, if you experience any wisdom tooth pain, call one of our West Michigan family dental offices as they may be impacted.

It’s worth noting that those opting for wisdom tooth removal as an adult may experience a slightly longer recovery period and potentially more post-operative discomfort compared to teenagers. This is because the surgical site may involve more bone removal, and there may be a need for stitches to aid in the healing process.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Our oral surgery dentists serving West Michigan are trained to remove wisdom teeth in teens and adults. If you need relief from emerging teeth, call one of our MI Smiles Dental locations down below to schedule an appointment today!

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