Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that typically emerge during a person’s late teens or early twenties. While they once served an evolutionary purpose, modern dentistry often sees them as problematic. At Devon Dental Centre, we provide trusted wisdom teeth assessments and extractions for individuals in Devon and surrounding communities, ensuring oral health remains intact before issues arise.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that typically emerge at the back of the mouth. Most adults have four wisdom teeth—two on the top and two on the bottom. Due to modern diets and dental evolution, wisdom teeth are now often redundant and can create complications.
Many individuals simply don’t have enough space in their mouths to accommodate these extra teeth, which can lead to impaction, infection, and misalignment of existing teeth.
At What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Usually Erupt?
Wisdom teeth usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25. This range is commonly referred to as the “age of wisdom,” which is where the name comes from. However, it’s important to note that:
- Some individuals never develop wisdom teeth at all.
- Others may have one, two, or more than four (a rare condition called hyperdontia).
- In many cases, wisdom teeth remain impacted—trapped beneath the gumline or partially erupted.
Routine dental x-rays, especially during teenage years, can help track the development and positioning of wisdom teeth to anticipate potential problems.
Common Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In
The arrival of wisdom teeth is often accompanied by noticeable symptoms. While some individuals may experience little to no discomfort, many will encounter:
- Jaw pain or discomfort at the back of the mouth
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums near the molars
- Difficulty opening the mouth fully or chewing
- Headaches or earaches due to pressure buildup
If you’re noticing these symptoms, we can conduct a thorough examination and imaging to determine if your wisdom teeth are the cause and what steps should be taken next.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be extracted, but several scenarios warrant removal, including:
- Impacted teeth that do not fully emerge through the gums
- Crowding that shifts or damages adjacent teeth
- Increased risk of infection due to trapped bacteria
- Development of cysts or damage to jawbone
Preventative removal is often recommended, particularly when the wisdom teeth have not yet caused problems but are likely to do so. We conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine the best timing for extraction, prioritizing safety and long-term oral health.
What Happens If You Don’t Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Delaying or avoiding wisdom teeth removal can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Chronic jaw pain and swelling
- Misalignment of other teeth after orthodontic work
- Gum disease and infections in hard-to-clean areas
- Tooth decay from trapped food and bacteria
- Development of abscesses or cysts
For patients in Devon and area, early evaluation can save both discomfort and the cost of treating avoidable complications. We emphasize early diagnosis to protect your oral health well before symptoms intensify.
What to Expect During a Wisdom Tooth Removal at Devon Dental Centre
Your experience at Devon Dental Centre is designed to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible:
- Consultation and Imaging: We begin with a detailed consultation, complete with X-rays or 3D scans to assess the positioning and risk factors.
- Sedation Options: We offer various sedation methods to ensure you’re at ease during the procedure.
- Expert Extraction: Our dentists perform precise, minimally invasive extractions using modern techniques and sterilized tools.
- Post-Procedure Recovery: Aftercare includes clear instructions, prescriptions for pain relief, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Our priority is your safety, comfort, and rapid recovery.
Devon Dental Centre Supports You Through the Wisdom Tooth Process
For Alberta residents, the good news is that dental insurance plans often cover the cost of wisdom tooth extraction, particularly when it’s deemed medically necessary. From detecting early signs to performing expert extractions, Devon Dental Centre proudly serves Devon and nearby communities with compassionate, professional care.
If you or your teen is experiencing discomfort or has never had their wisdom teeth evaluated, now is the time. For more information feel free to reach us at [email protected] or (780) 987 1046, and let us create a personalized experience just for you.
