Milford Dental Excellence

Is it Wise to remove Wisdom teeth?

Dr. Randle Egbert and Dr. Robert Reineck are two Milford Dentists who have this to say:

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final teeth to develop. Most people have 4 wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. Usually, they erupt during our late teens, or early twenties. Oftentimes, the wisdom teeth become trapped or “impacted” in the jawbone in unusual positions, sometimes horizontally. This prevents them from erupting in a normal way. Or they may simply fail to come through. They can cause crowding or displacement of other teeth. Because of their position so far back in the mouth, it is often very difficult to brush and floss effectively. This can lead to the development of tooth decay, infection, or gum disease. Partially erupted teeth may have tissue covering some of the biting surface, which may trap food debris and bacteria, as well as cause discomfort when chewing.

In most cases, it is recommended that wisdom teeth be extracted. Depending on the position of a tooth, extraction may be done in our office, or you may be referred to an oral surgeon. In our office, Dr. Egbert will provide you with a local anesthesia. Nitrous oxide is also available to help you relax. The oral surgeon can offer a general anesthesia, so you are asleep during the procedure.

Should you have any questions about when or why to remove wisdom teeth, please call Milford Dental Excellence .