Do all wisdom teeth have to be removed?

Not all wisdom teeth have to be removed. When they erupt properly, and are kept healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. Unfortunately, this does not generally happen. The extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary when they are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow at an angle relative to the other teeth, partially emerge from the gum, or even remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. 

These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems. When they are partially erupted, maintaining good hygiene and keeping the gum tissue healthy becomes difficult. The opening around the tooth allows bacteria to grow and will eventually cause an infection that results in swelling, stiffness, and pain. In addition to causing decay in the teeth in front of the wisdom teeth, the 2nd molars. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and the healthy teeth. Removal of the offending impacted tooth or teeth usually resolves these problems. Early removal is  recommended to avoid such future problems and to decrease the surgical risk involved with the procedure.

Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?

Your dentist can evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth with an oral examination and X-rays and can determine if there may be present or future problems. Studies have shown that early evaluation and treatment result in a superior outcome for the patient. Patients are generally first evaluated in the mid- teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist or by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

The removal of the wisdom teeth is an outpatient surgery performed under appropriate anesthesia to maximize patient comfort. Our surgeons have the training, license and experience to provide various types of anesthesia to allow patients to select the best alternative. These services are provided in an environment of optimum safety, utilizing modern monitoring equipment and staff experienced in anesthesia techniques.