Wisdom Teeth Removal at Mayfield Ranch Dental

Wisdom teeth removal is a common and often necessary procedure to protect your long-term oral health. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge and often do so in mouths that simply don’t have the space to accommodate them. At Mayfield Ranch Dental, we provide expert wisdom tooth extractions in a comfortable and caring environment to help maintain your healthy smile.

When Do Wisdom Teeth Erupt?

Most people have all of their adult teeth by around age 13, but wisdom teeth typically begin to emerge between the ages of 18 and 24. Although patients of any age can experience issues related to their wisdom teeth, addressing these concerns early often leads to better outcomes. The sooner you visit Mayfield Ranch Dental for an evaluation, the lower your chances of developing painful or complicated symptoms.

Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal

Since wisdom teeth erupt last, they often lead to overcrowding and other dental issues. While not all patients experience the same symptoms, the following signs are common indicators that you may need your wisdom teeth removed:

• Swelling: Your cheeks, jaw, or gums may swell as your wisdom teeth push through. Removal can prevent or relieve this discomfort.
• Pain: The area at the back of your gums or jaw may ache, especially when chewing.
• Bad Taste or Odor: An unpleasant taste or smell in your mouth—without any obvious cause—can result from decay or infection near the wisdom teeth.
• Limited Jaw Movement: In more severe cases, swelling and impaction may make it difficult to open your mouth fully or chew comfortably.

When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Necessary?

About 70% of people will need to have their wisdom teeth removed, as most mouths can only comfortably hold 28 teeth. At Mayfield Ranch Dental, our experienced dental team carefully evaluates your situation to determine if removal is the best option for your oral health. Here are some key reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be removed:

• Impaction: If your wisdom teeth remain trapped beneath the gum and bone, they are considered impacted. This can lead to infection, damage to adjacent teeth, or cyst development.
• Improper Positioning: Wisdom teeth may grow in at angles or sideways, impacting other teeth and affecting your bite.
• Partial Eruption: When wisdom teeth only partially break through the gums, they are harder to clean and more prone to infection—particularly a condition called pericoronitis, which can cause jaw stiffness and swollen lymph nodes.

What Happens If Wisdom Teeth Aren’t Removed?

Wisdom teeth are a leftover feature from our ancestors who needed them to compensate for tooth loss due to wear and lack of dental care. Today, they are no longer necessary and often create more harm than good. Failing to remove problematic wisdom teeth can lead to:

• Crowded or misaligned teeth
• Gum infections
• Jaw pain or stiffness
• Tooth decay or damage to nearby teeth

At Mayfield Ranch Dental, we’re committed to preserving your smile and preventing complications before they arise. If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms or would like an expert evaluation, contact us today to schedule your consultation.