Wisdom tooth extraction is a procedure that often induces anxiety in individuals due to the bad reputation that it has, however, dentistry has come such a long way when it comes to ensuring maximum comfort and minimum pain. When it comes to wisdom teeth specifically, it is important to understand that they can cause serious problems for one’s oral health. Because of this risk, having knowledge of when it is best to have them removed can be quite helpful. Keep reading to learn more about when it is the most appropriate to have a wisdom tooth extraction.

Signs that indicate wisdom tooth extraction is necessary

Outlined below are a few key signs that will tell you when it is time to have wisdom teeth removed:

Pain or discomfort

The most common sign that indicates that wisdom tooth extraction is necessary is pain or discomfort within the oral cavity. When the wisdom teeth erupt, there is oftentimes pain or serious discomfort in the gums and around the surrounding areas. The type and intensity of the pain varies per person, but most commonly, it is a dull long-lasting pain because the wisdom teeth are trying to push their way through the other teeth and gums.

Crowding or shifting of the teeth

When the wisdom teeth begin to erupt from the gums, it is very common for the other surrounding teeth to shift or move. More often than not, the eruption of wisdom teeth can cause crowding, which can be damaging to various parts of the mouth, including the gums and existing adult teeth. Keeping an eye on certain areas of the oral cavity can help to better catch any early warning signs.

Timing

The following information highlights when it is the best time to have a wisdom tooth extraction as it varies per person. Most commonly, wisdom tooth extraction is best executed when the patient is under the age of 18. In a lot of cases, the wisdom teeth erupt during the early teenage years, which is the best time because it gives them less of a chance to get rooted in the gums. This means less pain, less swelling, and a much easier procedure overall.

Specific situations

Although it is most suitable to have wisdom teeth extracted during one’s teenage years, that does not mean it is not possible or even common for them to be removed after that. While some people’s wisdom teeth do erupt early on, there are individuals who do not experience eruption until much later in life.

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