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When Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
For many people, wisdom teeth removal is an inevitable procedure that will be needed at some point in life, often during teenage years. This can be a nerve-wracking experience for both parents and teens alike. But with the right preparation and understanding, it doesn't have to be a stressful ordeal. Let's take a look at what to expect when it comes to wisdom teeth removal and sedation dentistry options that can make the process even smoother.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually appear between the ages of 16 and 20. They can come in misaligned or cause crowding in your mouth, which leads to pain or discomfort. In most cases, they need to be removed because they can disrupt your other teeth’s alignment and cause overcrowding and destruction to the adjacent teeth (resorption).
When Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The optimal time to get your wisdom teeth removed is when you’re between the ages of 15 and 18, depending on their development. That's because younger patients tend to heal more quickly and experience fewer risks during surgery than older patients do. However, if you still have all four wisdom teeth when you reach adulthood, it may be best to consult with Dr Villarreal about having them extracted if they are impacted or causing other problems, especially pain.
Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure in which the dentist or oral surgeon removes one or more of the third molars, also known as wisdom teeth. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, and can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour depending on the number of teeth being removed.
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth removal may be necessary.
Why Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
One common reason to have your wisdom teeth removed is that wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning that they are unable to fully emerge from the gums. This can cause pain, infection, and damage to other teeth. Wisdom teeth can also contribute to the development of cavities and gum disease. In some cases, they can also cause crowding of the other teeth, leading to malocclusion. Removing the wisdom teeth can prevent these problems and improve overall oral health. It is typically recommended for people who have symptoms such as pain, swelling, or infection in the wisdom teeth area, or if a dentist or oral surgeon detects potential problems with the wisdom teeth during a routine exam.
It's important to note that wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure and most people recover fully within a few days. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and potential complications, such as post-operative bleeding, infection and/or "dry socket". It's best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine if wisdom teeth removal is necessary and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.
What To Do If I'm Afraid of The Dentist?
In some cases, sedation dentistry may be recommended for wisdom tooth extraction procedures depending on the patient's level of anxiety or fear surrounding dental work as well as their age and medical history. Sedation dentistry involves administering medications (either orally or through an IV) that help relax patients during dental procedures so that they feel less anxious and more comfortable throughout their appointment. This helps reduce any potential discomfort associated with surgery while also minimizing any risks related to anesthesia use in young patients.
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure for many families with teenagers, but it doesn't have to be a stressful experience for anyone involved. With proper preparation and understanding about what will happen before, during, and after surgery—as well as options like sedation dentistry—teens can feel calm and comfortable throughout their procedure while also ensuring that they remain safe during their visit to the dentist's office. With this information in hand, parents can rest assured knowing that their teen is receiving quality care from a qualified professional who has their best interests at heart!