The Wisdom Behind Wisdom Teeth
Hi Critters,
Oswald here!
What a beautiful Memorial Day weekend we had up here in NH. The little critters and I spent the day on Spofford Lake in Chesterfield, NH. We swam, grilled out, and enjoyed an extra day of family time together! It was nice having a long weekend together 😊
Now, we are ready to be back in the office and tackle today’s topic…the wisdom behind wisdom teeth! Let’s start with this…what are wisdom teeth and why do we have them?
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that erupt between the ages of 17-25 years old. This third set of molars can be a valuable asset if they come in straight, and if there is room for them. But the truth is, most of our jaws have evolved over time and just don’t have enough room for this set of teeth anymore. This can lead to further complications such as teeth coming in misaligned, impacted, and can even be a breeding ground for dental decay because of how difficult it is to keep them clean.
Why Wisdom Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
- Preventing Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding in your child’s mouth, leading to misaligned teeth. Extracting them early can prevent future orthodontic issues.
- Avoiding Impacted Teeth: Sometimes, wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly and become impacted. Impacted teeth can cause significant pain and infection.
- Reducing Risk of Decay and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are harder to clean due to their location, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
It’s a common question among parents in Keene: when is the right time for wisdom teeth extraction? The good thing is we monitor the growth and development of every child’s jaw and tooth structure at Children’s Dental Care.  We start taking panoramic radiographs at the age of 6, and routinely thereafter every 5 years. If and when it is time to discuss wisdom tooth removal, Dr. Wully or Dr. Zach will have that discussion with you.
The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Process
At our Keene Pediatric Dentistry practice, we ensure that wisdom tooth extractions are as comfortable and stress-free as possible:
- Consultation and Examination: Dr. Wully or Dr. Zach will assess your child’s dental health and discuss the procedure.
- Nitrous Oxide Options: We offer nitrous oxide as an option to ensure your child is relaxed and pain-free during the extraction.
- Post-Extraction Care: Proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth recovery. We provide detailed instructions and support to ensure your child’s quick and comfortable healing
This is a very routine and common procedure, and within a few days, you will be able to eat normally again. You will be surprised with how fast the procedure is!
Why Choose Our Keene Pediatric Dentistry Practice?
Our practice in Keene, New Hampshire, is dedicated to offering comprehensive pediatric dental care. We understand the unique needs of children and strive to make every visit a positive experience. If you are having wisdom tooth discomfort, it may be a good time have a consult with Dr. Wully or Dr. Zach to see if it is a good time for removal.
If you have concerns about your child’s wisdom teeth or any other dental issues, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our practice serves families in Keene and the surrounding 50-mile radius, including nearby towns like Swanzey, Marlborough, and Peterborough.
Stay flossy,
Oswald 😊
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