Impacted Wisdom Teeth - Is It Time to Say Goodbye to Your Third Molars?

When you’re approximately nine years old, your wisdom teeth or third set of molars begin to grow. When your jaw has completed its growth at around age 16, it is possible to determine if your wisdom teeth have enough room to erupt. If your jaw is too small, they may become trapped under bone and gum tissue. This condition is called impaction. Wisdom teeth may be fully or partially impacted; sometimes the crown of an impacted tooth is visible in the mouth. Some wisdom teeth grow at an awkward angle and crowd the teeth around them.

Wisdom teeth can cause serious problems, even when they’re not visible in your mouth. Infection around the crown of an impacted wisdom tooth is a common cause of pain and swelling in the back of the jaw. People often mistakenly assume the pain is caused by the tooth trying to erupt. If repeated or chronic infection is allowed to continue for a long time, it can gradually destroy the bone around the impacted tooth or spread to other teeth. In some cases, just the pressure exerted by the impacted tooth can damage neighboring teeth. Cysts and tumors of the jaw are also frequently related to impacted wisdom teeth. Dental extraction of the offending teeth is the most effective way to resolve or prevent these problems. 




It is usually best to surgically remove your wisdom teeth when they’re impacted. A dentist or an oral surgeon will make an incision in the gums, removing any bone blocking access to the tooth, and then separating the tooth from surrounding structures. Dental extraction is easier before the roots become fully formed and while bone is still flexible. If your impacted wisdom teeth are removed in your teens, you’ll recover faster and have fewer complications.

The majority of wisdom teeth extractions can be performed in an oral surgeon’s office. The tooth extraction cost and available anesthesia methods are based on the complexity of the surgery and may vary by individual patient. Talk to your dentist in Flint or oral surgeon about your financial options.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Flint, call Family Dental Group today at (810) 515-8952 or make an appointment.

Family Dental Group offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Flint. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Flint, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Family Dental Group, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Family Dental Group.