Between the ages of 17 and 25, the third set of molars, called wisdom teeth, will grow at the end of your gums. As they start to erupt, your dentist may ask you to extract them even if they cause no pain in the present. This is because they have the potential to cause the following problems in the future:
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- They may damage your other teeth
Oftentimes, there is hardly any space in the mouth for the third molars. If they are allowed to grow anyway, they may overcrowd the mouth and push the other teeth out of place. Also, if wisdom teeth grow at an angle, they may damage the teeth close to them.
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- You run the risk of gum disease and cavities
Since wisdom teeth grow at the extreme end of the gums, they are hard to reach when you’re brushing and flossing. This makes them a good breeding ground for plaque and bacteria, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
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- There is a likelihood of sinus problems and jaw bone damage
Wisdom teeth problems may affect the sinus, leading to congestion and pain. If cysts form around the tooth, the jaw may also become hollowed out, leading to extensive damage.
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- They may cause a misalignment in the mouth
When wisdom teeth are impacted, they crowd out the other teeth and cause misalignment, pain, and bite problems.
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- They get harder to remove over time
The older you get, the stronger the bone in your mouth grows. Removing wisdom teeth at a later date may lead to more pain during the extraction and an extended recovery period.
An x-ray will show if your wisdom teeth will cause problems in the future. If they will, your best bet is to extract them immediately. Residents of Houston can visit Pearland Family Dentistry for all tooth extraction procedures. Call 832-649-7344 now for any inquiries or to set up an appointment.