Wisdom Tooth Extraction For Teens: What You Need To Know
Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common experience for teenagers. These are the last molars that develop, usually appearing in your late teens or early twenties, located at the very back of your mouth. While they’re a natural part of development, wisdom teeth often don’t have enough space to come through properly, leading to pain or other dental issues. Sometimes, they can even push against your other teeth, undoing all the hard work from braces or other orthodontic treatments. In cases where cosmetic appearance is a concern, a cosmetic dentist can also assess how wisdom teeth removal might impact your smile.
Common Reasons Teens Need Wisdom Teeth Removed
There are a few reasons your dentist might recommend getting your wisdom teeth out, even if you aren’t feeling much pain yet. Here are some of the most common:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow properly, they can get stuck in your gums or jawbone, causing pain and pressure on your other teeth.
Wrong Angle: Sometimes wisdom teeth come in at an angle, pushing against your other teeth, which can mess up your smile, especially if you've had braces.
Not Enough Space: Your mouth may just be too small for the extra set of molars, which can cause crowding and discomfort.
Cavities or Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are hard to reach and clean, making them more likely to develop cavities or gum problems.
When It's an Emergency
Sometimes, wisdom teeth can cause sudden problems that need immediate attention. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you might need an emergency extraction:
Swollen Gums: Infection around your wisdom teeth can cause your gums to swell and become painful.
Facial Swelling: Impacted or infected wisdom teeth can cause swelling in your face, which may spread if not treated quickly.
Persistent Pain: Ongoing pain or sensitivity near your wisdom teeth can indicate an infection or impaction, requiring fast treatment.
Pus from the Gum: This is a sure sign of infection, and you’ll need to get the tooth out to prevent further problems.
Swollen Lymph Nodes: If the glands under your jaw are swollen, it could be a sign that your body is fighting off an infection.
Trouble Opening Your Mouth: If you find it difficult to open your mouth or swallow, it's a sign that things are serious and you need help quickly.
Fever: A fever might mean the infection is spreading, and emergency dental care is crucial.
The Extraction Process
Not all wisdom teeth extractions are the same. Some are simple and quick, taking just a few minutes, while others can be more complicated and take longer. If your tooth is partially exposed or at an awkward angle, your dentist may need to make a small cut in your gums to remove it. For more complicated cases, you might be referred to an oral surgeon, and general anesthesia may be used so that you're completely asleep during the procedure.
Looking for a Brighter Smile?
After dealing with wisdom teeth, you might be thinking about how to improve your smile. Cosmetic dentistry in McLean, VA offers a range of treatments, like teeth whitening, veneers, or bonding, that can help you get the confident smile you’ve always wanted. Many teens are exploring these options to enhance their smiles and boost self-esteem.