Pasadena, Texas Dentist Michael Nugent talks Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom Teeth 101:
What are wisdom teeth?
The wisdom teeth are the third molars. These third molars are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. Wisdom teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25 at a time of life that has been described as the “Age of Wisdom”
What is an impacted tooth?
A tooth becomes impacted when the tooth is not able erupt. In the case of third molars it is usually because of a lack of space in the mouth or eruption is prevented due to overlying teeth and bone.
What are the complications of wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth can causes infections, crowding, damage to adjacent teeth and cysts.
Are impacted wisdom teeth serious?
Impacted third molars can be painful, damage adjacent teeth and lead to infections. A more serious complication of impacted teeth is the formation of a cyst. The cyst fills with fluid and enlarges and can destroy near by anatomical structures. The cyst also has the potential to turn into a tumor.
Why/when should I have my wisdom teeth removed?
As the wisdom teeth grow their roots become longer and become more difficult to remove. Dr. Nugent evaluates patients third molars and discusses the optimal time to have the wisdom teeth removed. Patients tolerate and do better from third molar extractions when they are younger. The chance for complications is greatly reduced on younger patients.
Don’t let third molars cause you pain. Talk with Dr. Nugent about wisdom teeth extractions.
Typically, the third molars, also known as the wisdom teeth, are the last teeth to erupt. Because they erupt last, there is frequently insufficient space for wisdom teeth to erupt properly. When there is insufficient space for the wisdom teeth, they may become impacted (unable to completely break through the gum tissues and jawbone) or grow in at the wrong angle. Failure of the wisdom teeth to erupt properly can result in a number of dental complications, such as:
Damage to the adjacent molars
Cavities
Infection and swelling around the wisdom teeth
The development of cysts
Injuries to the jawbone
To avoid these severe complications and maintain a healthy smile, Dr. Nugent may recommend wisdom tooth extraction. First we will thoroughly evaluate your smile, including the position of your teeth and wisdom teeth, to determine if removal of your wisdom teeth would improve your smile. We are committed to maintaining the optimal health of your smile.
Dr. Nugent has been voted BEST PASADENA TEXAS DENTIST multiple times and is known as “The Pasadena Texas Dentist”. Patients from Pasadena, Deer Park, La Porte, League City, Clear Lake, Pearland and Houston visit our office.
Visit our office at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena Texas 77504. Or call us at 713-941-8261.