At Fischer Family Dentistry of Norton Shores, we strive to keep our patients informed about their oral health. One topic that affects many people is wisdom teeth—the third set of molars that typically appear between ages 17 and 25. While some individuals experience no issues, others may encounter discomfort or dental complications. Our dentist in Muskegon is here to guide you through the process of managing wisdom teeth and provide care if problems arise.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
In early human history, wisdom teeth played an important role in chewing tough foods like roots, leaves, and raw meat. These extra molars provided a backup as teeth wore down quickly from the coarse diet. However, as diets evolved to include softer, cooked foods, wisdom teeth became unnecessary.
Today, some people never develop wisdom teeth, a sign that evolution is gradually phasing them out. Still, 85% of people who do develop wisdom teeth will need them removed due to space issues or complications.
Interestingly, research shows that extracted wisdom teeth contain stem cells that could be used for future medical treatments. This discovery has led some patients to consider keeping their removed teeth for potential use later.
How Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems
Modern human jaws are smaller than those of our ancestors, leaving less space for additional molars. When wisdom teeth try to emerge, they can cause several issues, including:
- Crowding other teeth, leading to misalignment or crooked teeth
- Impaction, where teeth cannot fully emerge and remain trapped under the gums
- Jaw pain, swollen gums, and mouth irritation due to pressure from the molars
- Decay and infection, as wisdom teeth are hard to clean due to their location at the back of the mouth
Due to these challenges, dentists often recommend wisdom tooth removal to prevent future complications.
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth May Be Causing Issues
While wisdom tooth problems are often detected during routine dental exams, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Muskegon if you notice:
- Persistent jaw pain or stiffness
- Swollen, tender gums near the back of your mouth
- A bad taste in your mouth, which could indicate an infection
- Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing comfortably
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to have your wisdom teeth evaluated to prevent more serious oral health concerns.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
At Fischer Family Dentistry of Norton Shores, we’ll use advanced imaging to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if removal is necessary. If extraction is recommended, we’ll ensure a comfortable, efficient procedure with personalized aftercare instructions to promote quick recovery.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation Today
Whether your wisdom teeth are just beginning to emerge or they’re already causing discomfort, Fischer Family Dentistry of Norton Shores is here to help. Our team provides expert evaluations and care to ensure your oral health stays on track.
If you have questions about your wisdom teeth or need an appointment with a trusted dentist in Muskegon, contact us today. Let us help you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Call Fischer Family Dentistry today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward optimal oral health!
