The development for the first molars begins at around six years of age. At the age of twelve, the second molars begin to develop. Between the age of eighteen and twenty, the third ‘wisdom’ molars begin their development. Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to develop in our mouth and are just as useful as our other teeth if developed properly with a healthy gum tissue surrounding them.

The term ‘impaction’ refers to when a person’s wisdom teeth are unable to erupt (appear) properly in their mouth. However, not all teeth that have failed to erupt are impacted. Given enough time, the teeth may evolve properly. In order to determine if your teeth are impacted or not, a dentist will examine your mouth and take an xray of your jaw.

Infection, gum disease damage to the second molars and the formation of a cyst or tumour from the tooth follicle are some of the problems that may occur as a result of impacted wisdom teeth. In many cases, dentists recommend the removal of impacted wisdom teeth to eliminate future complications.

If wisdom teeth are impacted, early removal is most effective as it helps prevent problems, such as an impacted tooth destroying a second molar. We generally suggest removal of wisdom teeth be when the roots are three-quarters developed. This usually occurs during adolescence. We strive to prevent third molar impaction, as it is the most common medical developmental disorder.

After a wisdom tooth is removed a large hole, known as a socket, is left where the tooth was. During the healing process, a blood clot naturally forms in this hole which is designed to help heal the wound. It is important to preserve this blood clot so the healing process can occur. If this blood clot becomes dislodged this is a ‘dry socket’ which can prevent the natural healing process and cause infection.

Food can get caught in the wisdom tooth socket, causing infection. It is important to follow our post-surgery instructions immediately after surgery. This includes oral hygiene, diet and in some cases recommended or prescribed medications.

The costs of a wisdom tooth removal can vary greatly depending on how many teeth need to be removed, how developed they are and the extent of the removal procedure. Perfect Dental will always be the most affordable family dentist in Fairfield.