Five reasons a patient might need wisdom tooth extraction

Wisdom teeth are commonly problematic for most of our patients. These last teeth to erupt through the gumline can often become stuck or decayed. At Pearlmax Oral Surgery of San Diego, California, Dr. German Trujillo and his team can evaluate patients and help them decide if wisdom tooth extraction services are suitable for them.

What are five reasons why a patient might need wisdom tooth extraction?

 Various situations may arise in which Dr. German Trujillo and his team might suggest the extraction of wisdom teeth. Let’s take a look at five common instances when this procedure might be recommended:

• Impacted wisdom teeth. The wisdom teeth, also referred to by others as third molars, are the very last set of teeth to emerge in our mouth. They typically appear in patients between the ages of 17 and 25 and can sometimes cause discomfort or pain due to being impacted. When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it means that there is not enough space for it to fully emerge into the mouth. This may lead to pain, infection, and potential damage to other teeth. In such cases, extraction may be necessary to prevent further complications.
• Overcrowding of teeth. Our mouths are designed to hold a certain number of teeth comfortably. When wisdom teeth emerge, they often push against existing teeth, causing crowding in the mouth. This can result in misalignment of teeth, which can affect the bite and lead to other dental issues. In such cases, extraction may be recommended to create more space and prevent overcrowding.
• Tooth decay or damage. Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of our mouths, making it difficult to clean them properly. This increases the risk of tooth decay or damage over time. If a wisdom tooth becomes decayed or damaged, extraction may be needed to prevent the spread of infection and maintain oral health.
• Gum disease. When wisdom teeth are partially erupted, they sometimes create gum tissue around them that traps food and bacteria. This can lead to gum disease, which might cause pain, inflammation, and even bone loss if left untreated. In some cases, extracting the wisdom tooth can help improve overall gum health and prevent future issues.
• Preventive measure. In some cases, extraction of a wisdom tooth may be recommended as a preventive measure, even if the wisdom teeth are not causing any current issues. This is often done in younger patients to avoid potential problems in the future. Removing the wisdom teeth before they fully emerge can prevent overcrowding. Removal may also be done prior to undergoing orthodontic treatments to prepare the smile for realignment of the dental arch.

Who can I call for wisdom tooth extraction services?

Dr. German Trujillo offers both simple and surgical extractions for wisdom teeth and accepts new and returning patients from in and around the San Diego, California, community. Call (858) 434-7554 to request an upcoming appointment with our team, conveniently located at 4520 Executive Drive, Suite #220.

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