Wisdom teeth removal is so common that it is almost a rite of passage for young people. The third set of molars in our mouths, these teeth tend to emerge between the ages of 16 and 21, and removal may be necessary as a preventative effort or in response to certain symptoms.
Preventative Removal
An oral surgeon may recommend removing wisdom teeth even if they aren’t causing pain. As we age, the bones in our mouth harden, making it more challenging to remove wisdom teeth later in life. Removing them before the age of 21 can prevent the onset of symptoms later on in life.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Causes
Wisdom teeth removal in Chicago is often performed when the teeth don’t have enough room to emerge from the gums and properly develop. These are called “impacted” teeth, and they can cause gum pain, swelling and bleeding. Other common signs include bad breath, stiffness or swelling in the jaw, jaw pain and trouble opening the mouth.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth overcrowd the mouth, making it difficult for other teeth to be straightened. This crowding can also cause discomfort and pain throughout the mouth. Removing the wisdom teeth resolves this issues and allows other teeth to fit together properly.
Difficulty eating is another common reason wisdom teeth are removed. When food is stuck between the teeth and gums, it can cause pain, and the wisdom teeth are particularly difficult to clean because of their location in the back of the mouth. In these cases, the wisdom teeth may be removed to make eating less painful and reduce the likelihood that food will become lodged in the teeth, leading to an accumulation of plaque and other possible issues.
If you are experiencing these symptoms or would like to learn more about wisdom teeth removal in Chicago, contact Chicago Smile Design today.
