Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually appear in late adolescence or early adulthood, a time sometimes referred to as “the age of wisdom.” A remnant of our great ape ancestors, who used them to chew plants and raw meat, they often do not have enough space to grow properly. Their position at the back of the mouth can make them difficult to clean and cause various problems. This is why it is often recommended to have them removed before they become problematic.
WHY CAN WISDOM TEETH BE A PROBLEM?
Wisdom teeth appear when jaw growth is complete, between the ages of 17 and 25. However, there is not always enough space for them to grow properly. As a result, one or more of them may remain impacted or semi-impacted, meaning that they remain inside the gum/bone, either completely or partially. Even if they erupt completely, they may be positioned in a problematic location or at a problematic angle.
POSITION OF WISDOM TEETH AND POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS
•The tooth is fully erupted: even if it is fully accessible for hygiene, it remains difficult to clean, especially if it is poorly positioned.
It is therefore more vulnerable to the development of plaque, caries, and periodontal disease.
• The tooth is partially erupted (semi-impacted): Its partial eruption promotes the accumulation and penetration of bacteria that can cause cavities, abscesses
and other infections that can spread to adjacent teeth, gums, and even the jawbone.
• The tooth is completely impacted: Even if it remains inside the gum/bone, the tooth can continue to move, causing potential damage to the roots of neighboring teeth. Abscesses and cysts may also form.
Dental Services
THREE TIPS ABOUT WISDOM TEETH
• Don't wait until you have problems before consulting
It is generally advisable to have them removed as a preventive measure to avoid the development and spread of infection. However, in a few cases (about 10%) where these teeth are well positioned, they will not be removed. Your dentist will be able to advise you.
• Consult your dentist at the end of adolescence
It is recommended that the position of wisdom teeth be assessed at age 16. Removing them before they erupt will prevent problems associated with eruption and make the procedure easier.
• Discuss the procedure with your dentist
Since extraction can cause fear or anxiety, it is important to discuss it with your dentist. At Clinique Poirier, your dentists in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield will answer your questions and give you advice to make both the procedure and recovery easier.
Office hours
Mon – Thu 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Fri 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sat – Sun CLOSED
