Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

Do I Have to Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Do I Have to Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Unlike the rest of your adult teeth, wisdom teeth often come late to the party. In fact, they usually don’t make an appearance until your late teens or early-to-mid 20s. And, even then, not everyone has them.

In an ideal world, your wisdom teeth — also known as third molars — would emerge healthy and in a good position that doesn’t jeopardize your oral health. Unfortunately, that’s usually not the case. Instead, these pesky molars can lead to numerous problems, even when they haven’t broken through your gumline.

At The Dental Touch Oakland, our skilled team specializes in wisdom tooth extraction. If you still have your wisdom teeth, here’s why you should schedule a consultation today.

The problem with wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth can cause problems whether you can see them or not. Part of the issue with these molars involves how they do or do not grow. 

Many wisdom teeth become stuck either partially or completely below your gumline. When this occurs, you have impacted wisdom teeth. It’s also common for wisdom teeth to grow at an angle, either pushing against nearby teeth, toward the back of your mouth, or into the jawbone itself. You can also have a mouth that’s simply too small for any more teeth.

When ignored, wisdom teeth can trigger numerous dental issues, such as:

These unpredictable teeth can also cause problems at any point in your life. Believe it or not, a 94-year-old was the oldest person to grow wisdom teeth, according to Guinness World Records!

As a result, most people choose to remove their wisdom teeth preemptively to avoid complications before they arise.

What to expect when having your wisdom teeth removed

Our team uses two approaches to extract wisdom teeth during an office visit. Simple extractions can remove visible wisdom teeth, while surgical extractions address those below the gumline. 

Whether you have a simple or surgical extraction, you receive anesthesia so you stay relaxed and pain-free every step of the way. This could include oral conscious sedation, as well as local and general anesthesia. After your procedure, you can go home.

You can expect to have some swelling and discomfort for a few days after having your wisdom teeth removed. However, we provide detailed instructions on caring for your mouth to keep you comfortable and help you heal as quickly as possible. This typically involves taking pain relievers, applying ice to your jaw, and drinking cold liquids for at least 24 hours.

While no one looks forward to having their wisdom teeth removed, it’s often far easier when done before problems arise than after — especially at a younger age before the tooth root and bone become fully formed.

Do you have impacted or problematic wisdom teeth? Contact The Dental Touch Oakland by calling 510-324-9096 or schedule a consultation online today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

5 Simple Tips to Protect Your Dental Implants

Getting dental implants may be more involved than other tooth restoration options, but it’s a permanent solution that can last for decades. However, you still have to take good care of them. Here are five ways to help your implants last a lifetime.

I Have Dental Anxiety — What Can You Do to Help Me?

Did you know that fear and anxiety often keep people from seeing the dentist? If this sounds familiar, we’ve got good news — you don’t have to let these powerful feelings stand in the way of your dental care. Keep reading to learn more.

4 Warning Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Root canals are a common dental procedure. But what are they exactly, and how do you know you need one? Keep reading to spot the signs of a dental problem and how this treatment can help.

What to Do About Missing Teeth

A lost tooth does more than affect your smile, it can also jeopardize your oral health, weaken your jawbone, and alter your bite. Fortunately, you can avoid these serious complications and restore your smile at the same time with these solutions.