Many people have to have their third molars (also commonly referred to as wisdom teeth) extracted at some point in their lives. Often times, this is done in the form of an extraction surgery so that the teeth can be cut out from the gums before they have a chance to erupt in the mouth. Regardless of what you've been told about wisdom tooth removal surgery, however, there are some common myths you need to be aware of.
Myth 1: Wisdom Teeth Should Be Removed as Soon as Possible
When you get X-rays done on your mouth at least once a year at your dentist's office, your hygienist or dentist is likely looking not only for cavities, but for signs of wisdom tooth eruption as well. Often times, as soon as a dentist sees signs of wisdom teeth, he or she will recommend an extraction, but it sometimes makes the extraction a lot easier if the surgery is put off until the teeth are closer to the surface of the gums.
Myth 2: All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Extracted
Furthermore, don't fall for the myth that all wisdom teeth need to be extracted. This simply isn't true, as many people have wisdom teeth that grow in perfectly fine. Often times, if you have orthodontic work done earlier in your life, your dentist or orthodontist may extract some of your other molars to make room for your wisdom teeth later on. If this applies to you, then you might not need wisdom tooth removal at all.
Myth 3: Wisdom Tooth Extraction is a Routine Procedure
Be aware that, while many people have wisdom tooth extraction done, it is by no means a simple or routine procedure. That's because in most cases, wisdom tooth extraction actually involves cutting into the gums and surgically removing the wisdom teeth and roots from deep within the gums themselves. This is why aftercare is so important, as these wounds can be at a major risk of infection if you're not careful.
Myth 4: If Wisdom Teeth Grow in Fine, They'll Be Fine for Life
Finally, understand that even if your wisdom teeth have grown in just fine for the time being, this doesn't necessarily mean that they won't shift and cause problems later on. Therefore, you'll need to keep up with your dental exams and annual X-rays to be on the lookout for any problematic changes in your wisdom teeth. For more information on dental extractions, contact a local professional.
Share29 July 2015
Do you remember the last time you looked at your smile and really loved what you saw? A few years ago I started spending more time analyzing my appearance, and I noticed that my teeth were seriously lacking. I knew that I had to do something to improve the situation, so I began focusing on loving my smile by getting some work done. I started talking with a dentist about how he could help, and it was really incredible to see the simple difference that he was able to make. Within a few years, my smile looked and felt completely different, and I was really pleased with the results. Check out this blog for great information on making your smile more beautiful.
