300 North Hammes Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
The arrival of wisdom teeth, or third molars, can be a significant milestone in one's dental journey. Typically emerging between ages 17 and 21 when an individual transitions from teenage years to adulthood, these teeth are aptly named "wisdom teeth" due to their connection with the "Age of Wisdom."
While some individuals experience a smooth coexistence with their wisdom teeth and other teeth, many others face challenges that often require extraction. For young adults, discomfort or pain associated with problematic wisdom teeth is the primary reason they seek urgent dental care.
With limited space in the back of the mouth, the wisdom teeth are more prone to encounter complications. Even though our prehistoric ancestors may have had jaws large enough to accommodate these latecomers, human jaws have evolved to become smaller. This change is believed to be a result of our softer diets and larger brains.
A wisdom tooth is classified as impacted when it remains submerged under gum tissue or bone, unable to emerge into the proper position. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions are categorized in various ways. Soft tissue impactions occur when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue, while bony impactions occur when a wisdom tooth is obstructed entirely or partially by bone.
Aside from the frequency of wisdom tooth impactions and misalignment, maintaining cleanliness and preventing cavities and gum disease in these teeth can be challenging. Situated far back in the mouth, these teeth are particularly susceptible to bacterial buildup, dental decay, and infection. Our practice may recommend extracting third molars to reduce the risk of these oral health issues, supporting the overall well-being of your gums and surrounding teeth.
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can contribute to the formation of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth. These issues can cause significant damage to the jawbone and neighboring teeth.
At Steven E. Marek, DDS, LTD, we closely monitor the development, location, and health of unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth during regular dental checkup visits. For adolescents and adults alike, it's common for us to suggest removing potentially problematic wisdom teeth before a painful or complex emergency arises. Should symptoms and problems develop, we also provide prompt treatment and recommend extractions as necessary.
Extractions can make maintaining proper oral hygiene significantly easier since they eliminate the need to navigate hard-to-reach areas at the back of the mouth. With wisdom teeth removed, you'll be better equipped to maintain a healthy and effective oral care routine.
While every dental procedure carries some level of risk, our skilled and compassionate staff will ensure that your experience with wisdom tooth extraction is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We understand the importance of a healthy smile and are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health.
For more information on how wisdom teeth removal can benefit your overall dental health, please don't hesitate to contact our office for a consultation. Our dedicated team looks forward to assisting you in making the best decision for your unique smile.
Our goal is to help every patient experience the benefits of good oral health and a beautiful smile. We value the trust you have placed in our office and strive to provide solutions that meet your dental needs and expectations of care.