While preventing tooth loss is one of the top priorities of dental medicine, it is sometimes necessary to remove teeth that are infected or not growing in right to protect the health of the rest of the smile. Many people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed to preserve their oral health and restore their comfort, and your dentist will be happy to safely extract yours if necessary. Here’s a brief guide to how many wisdom teeth you may have and how your dentist can help your smile stay healthy and beautiful.
Is Everyone Born with Four Wisdom Teeth?
Most people are born with four wisdom teeth, and these large third molars can cause a host of oral health problems if the mouth does not have room for them when they emerge. In some cases, the eruption of the wisdom teeth can cause chronic pain, force the other teeth out of alignment, and leave the patient vulnerable to destructive oral infections. However, some people are born with only three, two, or one wisdom teeth, and some have none at all.
Why Would I Need Wisdom Tooth Extraction if I Can’t See Any Wisdom Teeth Emerging?
Even if you cannot see any wisdom teeth in your mouth, it is still possible that these third molars are present but submerged in the gum tissue. When this happens, the wisdom teeth are considered to be impacted, and this can set a patient up for persistent discomfort and create habitats for harmful oral bacteria within the oral anatomy. It’s best to consult with your dentist so they can take X-rays to determine how many wisdom teeth you have and determine the best way to remove them if necessary.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you have enough room in your mouth to accommodate your wisdom teeth, you probably won’t need to have them removed. However, it may be necessary to remove your third molars if they are causing problems, and your dentist is trained and equipped to extract them safely. The process will always begin with your dentist administering an appropriate anesthetic to ensure your comfort, and they will use specialized tools to remove your wisdom teeth without harming other parts of your mouth. You’ll also receive detailed aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
Don’t let your wisdom teeth cause constant pain and set you up for nasty oral illness. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your smile comfortable and healthy.
About the Practice
Lake Boone Dentistry offers the finest oral health services in Raleigh. Led by Drs. Matthew Ricke and Harding E. Douglas, the staff treats each patient with compassion, respect, and outstanding customer care. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as wisdom tooth extractions. If you are concerned about your wisdom teeth, contact the practice online or dial (919) 781-8610.