Wisdom Teeth Removal Scottsdale, AZ
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to form in your mouth, usually around the age of 18. As humans have evolved, our jaws have gotten smaller and can no longer accommodate this third set of molars known as wisdom teeth (or 3rd molars). Therefore, these teeth get stuck in the jaw and often result in complications such as pain, periodontal issues and crowding. A wisdome teeth removal procedure is often recommended to prevent these complications.
Should you have your wisdom teeth removed?
About 98% of patients have insufficient room for eruption of their wisdom teeth. If left in place, this will likely result in gum tissue infections, tooth decay (cavities), loss of bone to neighboring teeth and pain.
Many patients wonder “Do I need to remove my wisdom teeth?” In our practice, we base the decision on sound surgical judgment and evidence based research. Here’s some advice on answering this question.
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Removal of wisdom teeth (aka 3rd molars) is more difficult the older the patient. The ideal age to remove these teeth is between 15-18 when the roots of the wisdom teeth are 1/3 formed or more.
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A sound guideline is to bring your child in for consultation at age 16 for a panorex (dental xray) to determine if they are ready for wisdom teeth removal. Once there is evidence of 1/3-1/2 root development, these teeth are optimal for removal.
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Remember, wisdom teeth surgery and other complex oral surgery need to be completed by a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are experienced in management of potential complications and are the only choice in removal of your wisdom teeth.
Are There risks of keeping your wisdom teeth?
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons recently released a White Paper on Wisdom Teeth Removal. Here is a summary of their findings:
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The presence of third molars (wisdom teeth) is associated with elevated levels of periodontitis (bone loss)
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There is increased difficulty and risk of complications with removal of impacted wisdom teeth if deferred until later in life
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Third molars (wisdom teeth) play a role in the etiology (cause) of dental crowding
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Patients over 25 years of age are 1.5x more likely to experience complications with increasing age
All wisdom teeth surgeries are performed under appropriate anesthesia. Dr. Bebeau is highly experienced and licensed to provide the appropriate anesthesia for this procedure.
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