The wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to erupt in the mouth, typically making their appearance in the late teens or early 20s. While not everyone develops wisdom teeth, for those who do, understanding when and why these teeth may need to be removed is important for maintaining good oral health.
At DiBartola Dental, located in Bridgeville, under the care of Dr. Dr. Wayne DiBartola, we prioritize your oral health and provide tips on wisdom teeth management. Contact us at (412) 221-9440 to schedule an appointment.
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people get in their late teens or early twenties. Sometimes called the third molars, wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to erupt or grow into the mouth.
Wisdom teeth usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25, though they can erupt earlier or later. Not everyone gets wisdom teeth — some people never develop them at all.
There are several common reasons that dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth:
When there’s inadequate space in the jaw for wisdom teeth to erupt properly, issues can arise. Impaction occurs when the teeth can’t fully break through the gum tissue due to a lack of room. Crowding is another problem where the wisdom teeth put pressure on existing teeth, leading to misalignment.
Even if partially erupted, wisdom teeth can rub against and damage the teeth in front of them over time. Removing them prevents this deterioration.
The location of wisdom teeth at the very back of the mouth makes them extremely difficult to clean. This allows bacteria to accumulate and increases the risk of infection, gum disease, and cavities.
Wisdom teeth that only partially erupt allow an opening for bacteria to enter the gums and create conditions for cysts, tumors, or other abnormalities to develop. Extraction is often the best way to treat these conditions.
The main reasons our DiBartola Dental dentist recommends extracting wisdom teeth include:
Removing wisdom teeth typically involves the following:
The dentist will examine the wisdom teeth and take X-rays to evaluate their position and any potential issues.
We offer two types of removal procedures depending on how your wisdom teeth are positioned, such as:
You’ll be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics after surgery and will need to follow careful instructions on diet, oral hygiene, and activity level in the following days to allow proper healing. You can expect some side effects, such as swelling, pain, and stiffness.
Ready to take charge of your oral health? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Dr. Wayne DiBartola at DiBartola Dental today. Don’t wait, prioritize your dental wellness by calling (412) 221-9440 to ensure it stays bright and healthy for years to come.
Call 412-221-9440 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.