Be Wise About Your Wisdom Teeth

By Sharon Russell, DDS

The Maryland Oral Surgery Group

. http://www.themosg.com/

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Be Wise About Your Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also referred to as third molars, are the last teeth in the back of the mouth – two on the top, two on the bottom – to come in during young adulthood, typically between 17-25.

Every patient is unique, but in general, the American Dental Association (ADA) states that wisdom teeth may need to be removed when there is evidence of changes in the mouth such as pain, infection, cysts, tumors, damage to adjacent teeth, gum disease or tooth decay (if it is not possible or desirable to restore the tooth).

A dentist may also recommend removal to prevent problems or for others reasons, such as when removal is part of an orthodontic, restorative or periodontal treatment plan.

In addition, the condition and health of your mouth changes over time. The ADA recommends that wisdom teeth that are not removed be continually monitored, because the potential for developing problems later on still exists. As with many other health conditions, as people age, they are at greater risk for health problems and that includes potential problems with their wisdom teeth. Regular dental visits are important so your dentist can evaluate not just your wisdom teeth, but your overall oral health to help you prevent and manage dental disease and achieve optimal oral health.

Unfortunately, many people believe that as long as they are not experiencing tooth pain, they do not have to worry about their wisdom teeth. However, pain free does not mean disease or problem free. In fact, wisdom teeth that come in normally may still be prone to disease, according to a study by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) and the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Foundation.

AAOMS strongly recommends that third molars be evaluated by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in order to assess the presence of third molars, disease status, and to suggest management options ranging from removal to a monitored retention plan to ensure optimal patient-specific outcomes. As some children mature early, it is good to begin evaluating wisdom teeth at age 14-15.

Wisdom teeth that have completely come in and are functional, without cavities, in a hygienic environment with healthy gum tissue, and are disease-free may not require extraction. They do, however, require regular, professional cleaning, annual check-ups and periodic X-rays to monitor for any changes.