Your Guide to Wisdom Teeth in Worcester & Central, MA
If wisdom teeth have recently become a topic of conversation in your life, you may find yourself with more questions than answers. Fortunately, Kozica Dental is here to eliminate the guesswork. Discover the ins and outs of wisdom teeth with our professionals in Worcester and Central, MA.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are large teeth found in the very back of the mouth. Unlike regular teeth, wisdom teeth erupt later in life, emerging between the ages of 17 and 25. The average person has two top and two bottom wisdom teeth, but it is not uncommon for wisdom teeth to remain trapped below the gumline (impacted).
Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
You may be surprised to learn that many people do not have wisdom teeth. Approximately 5-37% of the population is missing one or all their wisdom teeth. This is thought to be linked to evolution and influences such as diet, genetics, and the environment.
Should People be Worried If They Don’t Have Wisdom Teeth?
A lack of wisdom teeth is no cause for concern. As wisdom teeth extraction is common amongst those with third molars, the lack of these teeth is an advantage. However, it’s important to note that just because you cannot see wisdom teeth does not mean they are not hidden beneath the gumline.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth were believed to have been used by our ancestors as an alternative set of teeth. However, our ancestors did not have the oral hygiene knowledge or dental care resources we do today, and tooth loss was far more common due to their dietary habits. With centuries of evolution, wisdom teeth have become virtually obsolete.
The Role of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth no longer play a role in the smile. The mouth holds approximately 28 teeth. When all your wisdom teeth erupt, this count rises to 32. Unfortunately, this often contributes to overcrowding and the potential for more complex oral health concerns, raising the importance of wisdom teeth extraction.
Potential Wisdom Teeth Complications
In some cases, the emergence of wisdom teeth will have little to no impact on your smile. However, often, these unnecessary additions trigger unfavorable complications, including:
- Mild to severe tooth pain
- Redness, swelling, and/or tender gums
- Wisdom tooth impaction
- Wisdom Teeth Infections
- Cavities and tooth decay
- Teeth shifting and/or overcrowding
When Is Wisdom Teeth Extraction Recommended?
Due to the many potential side effects associated with third molars, wisdom teeth extraction is very common. As wisdom teeth erupt later in life, your dentist, in conjunction with an oral surgeon, will monitor their development to determine whether they merit removal. If they erupt straight and perfectly aligned with adjacent teeth, extraction may not be necessary.
Wisdom Teeth Surgery vs Extraction
Wisdom teeth extraction is the standard method for removing third molars. However, this technique is not suitable for impacted wisdom teeth, which require wisdom teeth surgery. This procedure is slightly more complex and involves creating an incision in the gumline to access and remove the impacted teeth before they cause further oral health complications.
Protect & Improve Your Oral Health
Whether you’re navigating wisdom teeth extraction or looking to take proactive action regarding your oral health, we have you covered. Kozica Dental is Worcester and Central, MA’s partner in comprehensive dental care. With decades of experience and a passion for healthy, glowing smiles, we offer a range of general, preventive, and restorative dentistry services.
Call to Learn More About Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Eliminate the guesswork and uncertainty of wisdom teeth and empower your healthiest smile with Kozica Dental. From wisdom teeth extraction to surgery, we're here to help you achieve the right oral healthcare for your needs, working in conjunction with an oral surgeon. To learn more, contact us today to schedule a consultation.