To Extract or Not to Extract? Managing Wisdom Teeth.

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the four permanent teeth located in the back corners of your mouth. Most people have them, but they may not develop in some. Rarely, a person can have more than four. The late-blooming third molars usually erupt between 17 and 21 years of age. In many cases, wisdom teeth are not visible because they’re trapped beneath gum tissues and don’t have room to come in properly. This is called impaction, and it’s a common reason for wisdom teeth extractions. Impacted teeth may attempt to erupt at an angle, which may cause symptoms and threaten oral health. If three molars are not visible in each dental quadrant, x-rays may be necessary to determine the presence of wisdom teeth.

Symptoms Associated with Erupting Wisdom Teeth



Impacted wisdom teeth trying to erupt may produce a feeling of pressure or dull throbbing at the back of the jaw. If an impacted tooth becomes infected, jaw or facial swelling is possible.

Are Wisdom Teeth Extractions Always Necessary?

If wisdom teeth are not causing any problems, tooth extractions are not necessary. Many erupt normally and can be treated the same as any other tooth. As long as the tooth can be easily brushed and flossed, it is safe to leave it in the mouth. Extraction is usually recommended if the tooth has partially erupted and is a source of inflammation or infection. The soft-tissue growth that covers a partially erupted wisdom tooth may become infected when bacteria find their way beneath it. Another reason for removing a wisdom tooth is poor positioning, which may result in periodontal pockets, tooth crowding, or receding gums.

How to Manage Intact Wisdom Teeth



If gum tissue covering wisdom teeth causes symptoms, it can be modified without extracting the tooth. If you have an intact wisdom tooth, you may need to change the angle when you brush or floss more frequently to get the best results. Consult an affordable dentist to evaluate and manage or extract wisdom teeth.

To learn about our family dentistry practice 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.