Wisdom teeth are the source of much dental anxiety. The removal of wisdom teeth is one of the most frequently performed yet much dreaded procedures among consumers of dental care. Maybe Dr. Morgan can help lessen some of that anxiety. A cure for fear is sometimes knowledge so let us give you some straight talk about your crooked wisdom teeth.
1. Wisdom Teeth Is a “Nickname”
Wisdom teeth are thus named because they erupt later in your life, usually between the ages of 17-25. Clinically wisdom teeth are known as “third molars”. They’re called this because they are similar to the first two sets of molars towards the back of the mouth, except for their late arrival.
Third molars often cause issues because they erupt after the rest of the teeth are almost all completely settled in their permanent positions in your mouth. This limits the amount of space the wisdom teeth have to grow in which can cause impaction- when teeth grow into each other. Impaction can lead to pain or infection, although some patients never have problems!
2. Not Everyone Receives Wisdom… Teeth
It’s true. Some lucky few are born without wisdom teeth! Dr. Morgan can see your wisdom teeth present before they erupt on a dental x-ray, and if there are no signs of the third molars below the gum line, they may not come in at all. Dr. Morgan can also predict if your wisdom teeth will grow in properly, without problems, by using the x-ray to examine their positioning.
However, the wisdom teeth can still erupt many years beyond young adulthood in some cases. Next time you see Dr. Morgan, you can ask if your wisdom teeth are still waiting to come out or if you might have been born without them. The answer may surprise you!
3. They All Arrive at Different Times
Wisdom teeth are “supposed to” come in between the ages of 17 to 25, but that doesn’t mean they will all come at once. While all four may erupt together, it’s also possible for the two on top to come in before, or after, the two on the bottom — or even for one set to come in while the other never comes in!
Also, not all four may cause problems. One set may cause problems while the other is able to grow in properly depending on the room available in that part of your mouth. If there isn’t enough room, they may become impacted, growing in under your existing rear molars. Sometimes, because of their position, wisdom teeth are more difficult to clean, which can lead to cavities. This is why it’s important to schedule regular cleanings and examinations at Dr. Morgan’s office.
If you have questions about your wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Morgan today by calling 410.415.9015 or scheduling an appointment online.