Wisdom Tooth Removal
Wisdom teeth are the final permanent teeth to develop and typically begin to emerge during the late teenage years or early adulthood.
For some people, wisdom teeth erupt normally and never cause a problem. For others, there may not be enough room for them to come in properly.
Wisdom teeth may become:
- Impacted beneath the gums
- Partially erupted
- Difficult to keep clean
- Painful or inflamed
- Associated with infection or decay
- Harmful to nearby teeth
At AltaVia Dental, we monitor wisdom tooth development and recommend removal only when there is a clinical reason to do so. Some wisdom tooth extractions can be completed in our office, while more complex cases may be referred to an oral surgeon.
Depending on the location of the tooth and your individual needs, replacing a missing tooth may be recommended to help maintain function, appearance, and the stability of surrounding teeth.
Possible replacement options may include:
- A dental implant
- A dental bridge
- A partial denture
Not every extracted tooth needs to be replaced. Your dentist will discuss whether replacement is recommended in your particular situation and help you understand the available options.
Persistent pain, swelling, infection, or a damaged tooth should be assessed rather than ignored.
Sometimes a tooth can still be repaired. In other situations, removing it may provide relief and help protect the health of the surrounding teeth and tissues.
Have Questions About Your Wisdom Teeth?
Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or simply want to understand what’s happening with your wisdom teeth, our team can help. We’ll assess your individual situation, explain your options and recommend treatment only when it’s clinically appropriate.