Wisdom teeth are also known as the third molars and are located in the back of the mouth. Their development is usually completed between the ages of 16-21 and are the last teeth to erupt. If they come in properly and not mis-aligned, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. However, proper care by your general dentist is required including routine hygiene appointments as well as periodic X-rays.
Wisdom Teeth
Procedure Overview
More commonly, the wisdom teeth may have one of the following issues
Erupt sideways
When the wisdom teeth erupt sideways they can possibly cause bone loss or damage to the teeth in front of them. One way to confirm if this is happening is by placing a probe to check if there is a pocket behind the 2nd molar.
Partially impacted
When the wisdom teeth only partially appear, the opening allows for bacteria to enter underneath. If bacteria continue to travel into the opening, a local infection may occur. The overlying flap can become red and painful to touch – especially when chewing. This is known as “Pericoronitis”.
Full bony impaction
Occasionally the teeth are completely stuck in the jaw bone and do not enter the mouth at all. The bony impacted wisdom teeth may not have to be removed either. Again, these wisdom teeth need to be monitored closely with X-rays completed by your dentist or orthodontist. In a small percentage of cases, leaving the impacted tooth may result in an enlarged pouch (cyst) around the tooth. This can result in damage to the jawbone and adjacent healthy teeth.
When you arrive for your consultation appointment we will complete or need the following to create a treatment plan:
- Medical history
- Clinical exam
- Clear X-ray
A treatment plan will be provided during your consultation to give you the information you need to make the best decision possible. We will coordinate with your dentist and your primary care physician with regards to any concerns and timelines.
At Blueridge OMS we take pride in providing the best care possible.Your safety, privacy and comfort are of the utmost importance.
Do I need my wisdom teeth out if I am getting braces?
Sometimes! Occasionally, your orthodontist or dentist will refer you to see us for wisdom teeth removal. Lack of space in the jaw bones can lead to crowing of the teeth in general. Removing the wisdom teeth may help provide space or lessen any risk of relapse after orthodontics. Timing of wisdom teeth extraction is typically completed before orthodontic therapy. However, if braces were started before the wisdom teeth have sufficient development, we wait a few months. Typically, we will get an X-ray to evaluate the size of the roots of the wisdom teeth and decide on the timing with patients and family members.
The Indications for removal of third molars include some of the following
- Pain
- Pathology associated with the tooth (ie cysts, tumors)
- Abnormalities in the size or shape of the tooth that prevent it from functioning normally
- Increased pocketing behind the second molar due to eruption pattern of the wisdom teeth
- Insufficient space in your jaw. Wisdom teeth may be removed to make some space to help with braces and orthodontic movement
- Tooth in the line of a fractured jaw
- Planning correctional jaw surgery
- Eruption pattern causing damage to the tooth beside i
Digital Workflow Process
Consultation
Photographs, CBCT, Intraoral scan
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