Wisdom teeth, the third set of molars found at the back of the mouth, generally begin to erupt during late adolescence or early adulthood. For many teenagers, these teeth can cause a variety of dental problems, making extraction a common recommendation. Although not every teen will need to have their wisdom teeth removed, there are several important reasons why it’s often a necessary procedure for maintaining optimal oral health. Here are the key reasons why teens should consider having their wisdom teeth extracted.
Prevention of Crowding
As wisdom teeth emerge, they can create additional pressure in the mouth, potentially crowding existing teeth. In teens who have had braces or other orthodontic work, wisdom teeth can undo the alignment and cause teeth to shift, leading to misalignment or an overbite. Removing wisdom teeth before they come in fully can help maintain the results of orthodontic treatments and avoid the need for additional dental work down the line.
Impaction Issues
Wisdom teeth don’t always emerge properly. In many cases, they become impacted, meaning they are blocked from fully erupting through the gums due to lack of space. This can lead to discomfort, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth may also cause cysts or tumors in the jaw, which can lead to significant bone damage.
Avoiding Damage to Adjacent Teeth
When wisdom teeth come in at an angle or are impacted, they can exert pressure on neighboring teeth. This can lead to damage, including tooth decay, gum disease, and even cracks in adjacent teeth. Additionally, the lack of space can result in gum inflammation and tenderness around the wisdom teeth, causing discomfort and further complications. By removing wisdom teeth early, your teen can avoid these issues and keep their surrounding teeth healthy.
Preserving Oral Health
In addition to preventing crowding, impaction, and infection, the removal of wisdom teeth can contribute to better overall oral health. By eliminating potential sources of discomfort, decay, and gum disease, teens can maintain a healthy mouth throughout their teenage years and into adulthood. Preventative care, such as early wisdom teeth removal, helps avoid more serious dental issues in the future, saving both time and money on more invasive procedures.
Less Discomfort with Less Complex Surgery
If wisdom teeth are extracted at a younger age, the procedure is usually less complicated and the recovery time is shorter. For adults, wisdom teeth may be more deeply rooted and require more complex surgery. Therefore, it’s generally better to address potential problems while your teen’s teeth and jaw are still developing. This can minimize the discomfort of surgery and shorten the recovery process.
While not every teen needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, there are several compelling reasons to consider extraction. If you think your teen may need their wisdom teeth removed, consult with an experienced dentist or oral surgeon who can assess their situation and recommend the best course of action.
For more info, contact a local company like The San Diego Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
