Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to develop, usually emerging in the late teens or early twenties. While some people have enough room for their wisdom teeth to erupt properly, many do not. When wisdom teeth become impacted, crowded, or problematic, removal is often recommended to protect your oral health.
At Westminster Dental Care, Dr. Dylan McKnight and his team provide wisdom teeth evaluations and removal right here in our Westminster, CO, office as part of our comprehensive oral surgery services.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
When this happens, wisdom teeth can create a variety of oral health concerns, which is why they’re one of the most commonly removed teeth.
Why Wisdom Teeth Are Often Removed
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but many people do. Wisdom teeth removal may be recommended when:
- There isn’t enough room for the teeth to erupt properly
- The teeth are impacted (trapped beneath the gums or bone)
- The teeth are causing crowding or shifting of other teeth
- The teeth are partially erupted and difficult to clean
- There are signs of decay, infection, or gum problems
- The teeth are causing pain, swelling, or discomfort
- There is a risk of developing cysts or damage to nearby teeth
By monitoring the development of wisdom teeth over time, our team can help determine whether and when removal may be necessary.
Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal
Sometimes wisdom teeth cause obvious symptoms, while other times problems develop gradually. Contact Westminster Dental Care if you experience:
- Pain or tenderness at the back of the mouth
- Swelling around the jaw or gums
- Redness or irritation of the gum tissue
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- An unpleasant taste or bad breath
- Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth
Even without symptoms, wisdom teeth can still cause underlying problems. Regular dental exams and X-rays allow us to monitor their development and identify concerns early.
Wisdom Teeth Evaluations
The best way to determine whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary is through a dental evaluation. Using digital imaging, our team can assess the position and development of your wisdom teeth and identify potential problems before they become more serious.
Based on your evaluation, we’ll discuss our recommendations and explain whether removal is advisable in your situation. If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing problems and have adequate room, removal may not be necessary. However, when problems are likely, early removal can often help prevent complications.
Comfortable Wisdom Teeth Removal
For appropriate patients, we perform wisdom teeth removal in our office as part of our oral surgery services. Our team focuses on making the experience as comfortable as possible, using techniques and comfort options designed to help you feel at ease.
Depending on your needs, we may offer comfort options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax during your procedure. We’ll discuss the appropriate options based on your treatment plan and comfort level.
Wisdom Teeth Recovery
Most patients recover within a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the procedure. We’ll be here to answer your questions and support you throughout the healing process.
Wisdom Teeth Treatment in Westminster
If you or your teen may need wisdom teeth evaluation or removal, Westminster Dental Care is here to help. Our experienced team provides comfortable wisdom teeth care right here in Westminster, CO. Schedule your appointment today to learn more about your treatment options.
