Any time you mention “wisdom tooth removal” to others, most individuals who have had them removed may have stories about the healing process and recovery that may make some patients uneasy about undergoing treatment. However, wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure performed by our dental team that can provide patients with pain relief and a healthier smile. This is especially true when it comes to advocating for early removal of the wisdom teeth.
Understanding the wisdom teeth
The wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the last teeth to erupt through the gumline, often in a patient’s late teen years or early adulthood. Because these teeth are further back in the mouth, they can be difficult to keep clean. Additionally, due to lack of space in the mouth, many patients experience impaction of the wisdom teeth, which can cause extreme pain. These teeth are not necessary for overall health, and can be easily removed by a dentist through simple or surgical extraction.
When should wisdom teeth be removed early?
Patients often ask Dr. Nancy Gill if early removal of the wisdom teeth is unnecessary. This varies greatly from patients to patient, and there is no right or wrong answer. However, based on the patient’s current dental health and the impact the wisdom teeth may have on the smile, the choice may be made to have these teeth removed before they have a chance to become impacted or erupt through the gum line. Early wisdom tooth removal may be performed by an oral surgeon if a patient has undergone orthodontic work to straighten the smile. The eruption of wisdom teeth may cause overcrowding or reverse what was accomplished with braces. Additionally, patients who already struggle with maintaining their oral health may benefit from having these teeth removed to avoid any future problems.
Call the team at Golden Dental Solutions today
Dr. Nancy Gill and her dedicated professional staff welcome new and current patients in the Golden, Colorado area to learn about the benefits of having wisdom teeth removed early, if required. Her facility can be reached by calling (303) 277-9600 and is located at 1218 Arapahoe Street.
