If you are a parent in Miami with teens at home, there may be a conversation about their wisdom teeth. You are likely to have questions. Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed? When is the right time for this procedure? Is it always necessary?
At Miami Designer Smiles, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their oral health. So, let’s delve into the topic of wisdom teeth removal for teens and explore why and when it becomes a necessity.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. They are the last set of permanent teeth to appear. Unfortunately, most people do not have enough space in their mouths to accommodate these late bloomers. This lack of space can lead to several problems such as pain, infection, and teeth misalignment, making their removal necessary in many cases.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal is Often Necessary
Wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed if they are healthy, fully erupted, and maintainable through regular oral exams and preventive care involving cleanings. But in certain scenarios, they do pose problems that necessitate extraction.
Impaction and Overcrowding
For many, wisdom teeth cannot break through the gums, a condition termed as ‘impacted wisdom teeth.’ This is due to a lack of adequate space in the jaw, leading to overcrowding. Impacted teeth can be painful and cause infection or create a breeding ground for bacteria that incite gum disease.
Tooth Decay
Wisdom teeth can make oral hygiene difficult due to their location at the far back of your mouth. They are hard to reach with a toothbrush and floss, making them more prone to decay – a plight evidenced by most patients receiving dental exams at Miami Designer Smiles.
Other Problems
Impacted wisdom teeth can play host to cysts that can damage the roots of adjacent teeth. They can also cause sinus issues like pain, congestion, and pressure.
When Wisdom Teeth Removal for Teens Becomes Necessary
The timing for wisdom teeth removal varies from individual to individual. Typically, dentists recommend it when they are causing pain, presenting signs of decay, or have gum disease. However, many oral health professionals advise wisdom teeth removal during the late teens and early twenties, even before they cause issues. Here’s why:
Roots are Not Fully Developed
In teens, the roots of wisdom teeth may not be fully developed, making extraction less complicated. Less developed roots lower the risks of damaging neighboring teeth, nerves, and jawbones during the procedure.
Faster Healing
Teens and young adults generally heal faster and are less likely to suffer from complications post-extraction. Older patients often experience extensive recovery times as the wisdom teeth’s roots have had the chance to fully embed into the jawbone.
Preemptive Measure
Wisdom teeth removal in Miami is becoming increasingly proactive rather than reactive. Through imaging technology, Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia at Miami Designer Smiles can predict potential problems before they occur. Preventive extraction can help avoid the need for difficult and complicated surgery in the future.
Navigating the Process of Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you anticipate your teen needing wisdom teeth removal or have been advised by your dentist, it’s understandable to have questions about the procedure.
What to Expect During the Procedure
At our dental office, wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure performed under sedation dentistry. This ensures a painless experience during the process. Following extraction, sutures may be placed to hasten healing.
Aftercare and Recovery
After the wisdom teeth removal, the recovery period usually lasts a few days to a week. There might be some discomfort along with swelling and bruising, which can be managed by over-the-counter medications. Your teen should also stick to soft foods for a few days and limit physical activity.
Make Wisdom Teeth Removal Safe and Effective with Miami Designer Smiles
Wisdom teeth removal is a significant dental procedure for most teens. At Miami Designer Smiles, we possess extensive experience and expertise in wisdom teeth removal, making us a trusted choice for families in Miami.
Our dental team, headed by Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia and Dr. Raul Garcia, is committed to providing gentle, safe, and effective dental procedures, including wisdom teeth extraction. Along with our comprehensive range of dental services, you can rest assured knowing your family’s oral health is in capable hands.
Remember, wisdom teeth removal for your teen doesn’t have to be scary or painful. By choosing a compassionate and experienced dental team, you can ensure the process is seamless and comfortable. Feel free to schedule an appointment today and let us help your teen smile brighter!