What you should know about Wisdom Teeth Explained by Dr. Liany Farinas-Han
While some might think wisdom teeth got their name because they make you smarter, that’s simply not true. The saying goes that as you get older, it’s said that you become wiser and full of wisdom. The same is true for wisdom teeth. The average person is 17-21 years old, “older”, when wisdom teeth start to come in. That’s the real reason behind their name.
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are usually the last permanent teeth to erupt. Many people have four, but some have fewer or none. Removal is based on problems such as disease, damage, or impaction and the individual risks of keeping or removing them, rather than being automatic.
What are wisdom teeth for?
Wisdom teeth are molars at the back of the mouth. Some erupt into a healthy, functional position; others lack space or develop problems. They are not necessarily the largest or strongest teeth. A dentist can assess whether they can be kept clean and monitored or whether removal is appropriate.
Here are a few reasons wisdom teeth may have to be removed:
Wisdom teeth don’t have enough room in the mouth
Infections or cavities are present
The wisdom tooth is damaging a neighboring tooth
Root damage
Bone loss
Discuss the reasons for removal, alternatives, and risks with your dentist or oral surgeon. Healthy wisdom teeth that are retained require continued monitoring.
What happens after wisdom teeth extractions?
After an extraction, follow your surgeon’s written instructions for pain medicine, eating, cleaning, and activity. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting during the first 24 hours to protect the blood clot. After that, use gentle salt-water rinses if instructed. Contact the office promptly for heavy or persistent bleeding, fever, or worsening pain or swelling.
For more information on wisdom teeth, visit us and ask our dentist or hygienist any questions!
If you have wisdom teeth that may need to be removed and/or causing you pain, contact Smiles by Bergen Dental and make an appointment. Smiles by Bergen Dental is conveniently located in Midland Park New Jersey, within minutes from Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Glen Rock, Paramus, Ramsey, Allendale, Saddle River, and Ho-Ho-Kus.