Wisdom teeth, also referred to as third molars, get their name by being the last teeth to come in during young adulthood, typically between 16 and 21 years of age. As part of a dental visit, Dr Willis will examine you to determine if your wisdom teeth are healthy or if they need to be removed.
Every patient is unique, but in general, wisdom teeth may need to be removed when there is evidence of changes in the mouth such as:
- pain
- infection
- cysts
- tumors
- damage to adjacent teeth
- gum disease
- tooth decay (if it is not possible or desirable to restore the tooth)
Dr. Willis may also recommend removal to prevent problems, if there is inadequate space, or for others reasons, such as when removal is part of an orthodontic, restorative or periodontal treatment plan. Typically having the wisdom teeth removed in young adulthood is much better tolerated than when we get older. The ideal age for the removal of wisdom teeth is 16 to 18 years of age.
In addition, the condition of your mouth changes over time. Wisdom teeth that are not removed should continue to be monitored, because the potential for developing problems later on still exist. As with many other health conditions, as people age, they are at greater risk for health problems and that includes potential problems with their wisdom teeth. Regular dental visits are important so Dr. Willis can evaluate not just your wisdom teeth but your overall oral health to help you prevent and manage dental disease and achieve optimal oral health.