Why Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Strongly Recommended For Teens?

Posted on: 9 September 2021

If you take your teen to the dentist for routine dental exams, you might be alarmed or confused if their dentist recommends wisdom teeth removal surgery. However, this is a normal recommendation that usually is the result of something that a dentist notices during an examination. X-rays used in routine appointments show the development of teeth. They aid in showing how wisdom teeth are growing in. Some individual's wisdom teeth do not erupt and others will partially or fully erupt.  Dentists do not perform the surgical procedure. The surgeries are performed by maxillofacial surgeons. The following points identify reasons that dentists refer patients to a surgeon to get their wisdom teeth extracted.

Awkward Eruption Angle

The angle that wisdom teeth erupt in can negatively impact other teeth. As the wisdom teeth push through the gum tissue, they can force other teeth out of a straight position. If a dentist catches this abnormality in time, it can reduce the chances of a teen needing future orthodontic treatments for misalignment.

Pain

Problematic wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain and tender gums. The jaw pain is often the result of an individual having inadequate mouth space to accommodate the growing wisdom teeth. It can also occur when wisdom teeth are impacted in the gums. Partial eruptions occur when the teeth do not fully push through gum tissue.

Interference with Dental Hygiene

Wisdom teeth are located at the rear of the mouth. This can make it challenging to ensure they get brushed and flossed properly. Poor dental hygiene can cause gingivitis and lead to gum disease. Dentists might also recommend wisdom teeth removal for teens who have cognitive delays and require assistance with personal care.

Mouth Structure

Individuals with small mouths usually do not respond well to erupting wisdom teeth. Their mouths cannot accommodate the extra teeth, but the teeth may continue to try to force their way in. This results in jaw pain and can negatively impact alignment. 

Infection

Partially erupted wisdom teeth put individuals at risk for an infection that is referred to as pericoronitis. The infection can lead to gum disease that starts at the site of the impacted wisdom teeth. Keep in mind that it is possible to have a combination of fully impacted, partially impacted, and fully erupted wisdom teeth. However, if surgery is required, a surgeon might recommend removing all of the wisdom teeth to ensure that a future wisdom teeth removal surgery will not be needed.

If it has been a while since your teen has been to the dentist, you should consider making an appointment. Wisdom teeth represent the last phase of tooth development and recognizing issues with them early on is crucial. Be sure to ask the dentist about wisdom teeth removal.

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