Wisdom teeth are a remnant of our diets during the caveman era. The foods we eat in our modern lives are softer and require less chewing. Our jaws have grown smaller over time, and now there isn’t quite enough room for wisdom teeth to grow in properly. This can cause your wisdom teeth to grow into your existing teeth (impaction) or to never come through the gums properly, causing food trapping and infection. Unless there is enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth your dentist will likely recommend extracting them due to the risk they pose to your other teeth.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Why do I need my wisdom teeth extracted?
What happens during wisdom tooth extraction?
A full mouth x-ray is often the first step when looking to remove wisdom teeth so that the dentist can see where the roots of the teeth are in relation to the nerves in your face. In the case of difficult extractions your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon, these are specialist dentists who are better equipped for tough cases. You will also be referred to an oral surgeon if you wish to remove your wisdom teeth under general anesthesia. Otherwise, wisdom teeth are removed much the same as other teeth, though often with a little more elbow grease.
Where do I start?
Due to the complications that wisdom teeth can present it is best to start with a consultation first. Your Wellington dentist can then assess the structures in your mouth and make a plan with you to remove your wisdom teeth. Your dentist can also help you with any pain during this consultation.
