Saskatoon – Stephenson Orthodontics
What are Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third and last molars, found at the very back on each side of the upper and lower jaws, and are the final teeth to erupt through the gums. These teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people never develop wisdom teeth. For others, wisdom teeth erupt normally, just as their other molars did, and cause no problems.
Often however, wisdom teeth do not have sufficient space to erupt properly and become fully or partially impacted, and will need to be removed.
Why Do We Have Them
Our Early Ancestors needed to chew coarse, hearty foods and meat, so wisdom teeth grew in to give them more chewing power.
Because our diet has changed through time, wisdom teeth are no longer required to chew our food, causing our mouths and jaws to evolve and grow smaller over time. Most problems caused by wisdom teeth are due to the fact that they just don’t fit.
Do Wisdom Teeth Hurt
Wisdom teeth can cause slight pain when they are trying to erupt. Because there may not be enough room to come through the gums, they may ache as they try and push their way through.
Wisdom teeth are also more susceptible to infection than other teeth. Their position in the very back of the mouth can make it difficult to brush and floss next to them, allowing bacteria to multiply.
Because they emerge into a mouth already full of teeth, wisdom teeth can also remain partially impacted, creating more hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. In some cases, soft tissue can grow over a partially impacted wisdom tooth, causing an infection known as pericoronitis.
Signs of an infected wisdom tooth include:
- pain or sensitivity
- tender or swollen gums
- red or bleeding gums
- white fluid or oozing around teeth
- bad breath
- bad taste in your mouth
- jaw pain
- jaw swelling
- stiff jaw
- difficulty breathing, opening your mouth, or speaking
If you experience pain around your back molars, make an appointment with your dentist.
Do I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth are often removed even in the absence of infection. Because they may crowd your mouth as they come in, potentially damaging or shifting other teeth, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend they be removed once they begin to emerge, as a preventative measure against future pain and problems.
It’s recommended that teenagers be evaluated for wisdom teeth removal surgery. People who get their wisdom teeth removed at a younger age tend to heal better from surgery, before the roots and bone have fully formed. This can help avoid any potential problems before they start.
Will Wisdom Teeth Affect my Smile After Braces
While wisdom teeth typically will not harm a straight smile achieved through orthodontic work, removing them may still be recommended to ensure the overall health of your mouth.
Because every person and every case is different, it’s always best to consult with your orthodontist for further advice about whether you should have your wisdom tooth removed and how this might affect your orthodontic treatment in the long term.
Come see us for your FREE consultation (no referral necessary!). Book below, @ www.drtooth.ca or call 306-653-3955!
Stephenson Orthodontics
301 The Tower at Midtown
201 1st Ave South
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
S7K 1J5
