The wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge from the gums in a person’s late teens or early twenties. In some cases, these molars will develop properly, without disrupting the other teeth. For many patients, however, wisdom teeth removal is necessary to prevent dental disease, tooth damage, aesthetic problems, and ongoing discomfort.
Northern Virginia dentists and orthodontists refer their patients to Dr. Gocke for wisdom teeth removal because of his expertise and experience in the procedure. As an oral and maxillofacial specialist, he performs these extractions nearly every day and treats cases ranging from simple to complex. Families who bring their adolescent children to the practice appreciate Dr. Gocke’s focus on patient comfort and safety. He promotes these goals through advanced pain management techniques without relying on potentially addictive opioid medication.
Why is Wisdom Teeth Removal Important?
When your dentist or orthodontist examines your wisdom teeth in your early teens, he or she may determine that these molars are likely to cause future dental problems. Alternatively, some patients have their wisdom teeth taken out later in life after they begin experiencing pain, dental damage, and other problems. Depending on when you have the procedure, wisdom teeth removal can help you:
- Prevent or resolve tooth decay, infection, and localized periodontal disease.
- Avoid having teeth shift out of alignment.
- Allow neighboring teeth to erupt properly from the gums.
- Prepare for corrective jaw surgery, orthodontics, or Invisalign®.
- Address cysts and tumors that form in the jaw.
We all have them and there comes the time in our mid-teens when we must deal with them. But what is the wisest thing to do when it comes to deciding whether or not to remove your wisdom teeth?