Why Would You Need to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Could your wisdom teeth be doing more harm than good? At Harman Dental Care, we offer wisdom tooth extraction, never sparing any effort to provide you with exceptional care you can trust. Contact our Arcadia Neighborhood practice in Phoenix to get started today!

Do Your Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed?

Your wisdom teeth, also known as your third molars, are the final set of permanent teeth to emerge, usually in the late teens or early twenties. While a small percentage of people have wisdom teeth that grow in perfectly straight, the vast majority face complications. 

The following are some of the reasons we may recommend wisdom teeth extraction:

• Crowding: The human jaw rarely has enough space to accommodate four extra molars. When your wisdom teeth try to force their way in, they can push your beautifully straight teeth out of alignment and undo years of orthodontic work.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When your wisdom teeth lack the space to break through the surface, they remain trapped underneath the bone and gum tissue (impacted). They can sometimes grow at painful, awkward angles, putting intense pressure on the neighboring teeth and your jawbone.
• Decay or Infection: Because your wisdom teeth erupt so far back in the mouth, they are incredibly difficult to keep clean with a standard toothbrush and floss. This often leads to plaque and tartar buildup and a higher risk of recurrent, painful gum infections (pericoronitis), deep decay, and other complications.
• A Cyst or Tumor: In rare cases, the fluid-filled sac that surrounds an unerupted wisdom tooth can become infected and transform into a cyst. Left untreated, these cysts can expand within the jawbone, damaging the surrounding bone structure, tooth roots, and nearby facial nerves.

At times, we may recommend extracting a wisdom tooth even if it’s not currently causing symptoms when it poses a risk of future complications.

What Are the Warning Signs That You May Need Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

The following are some of the most common signs of wisdom teeth problems:

• Pain or pressure at the back of the mouth, especially around the jaw or ears
• Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums near the emerging tooth
• Crowding or shifting of your neighboring teeth
• Recurring infection around a partially erupted tooth
• Unexplained sinus pain, pressure, or congestion
• Difficulty opening your mouth or stiffness in the jaw
• Persistent bad breath caused by trapped bacteria
• Damage or cavities on neighboring teeth due to crowding

Sometimes problematic wisdom teeth show no symptoms at all. That’s why it’s important to keep up with regular dental exams and cleanings. Our team at Dr. Harman Dental Care will monitor your wisdom teeth over time and recommend extraction, if needed, to avoid complications.

What Is the Best Age to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

The ideal age for wisdom tooth removal is typically in the late teens to mid-twenties, when the tooth roots are not yet fully formed, and the surrounding bone is less dense. This timing often results in a simpler procedure, less risk, and a faster recovery. That said, wisdom teeth can be removed at any time in adulthood as necessary.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one needs to have wisdom teeth extracted, you can count on Dr. Harman and his patient-centered team at Harman Dental Care for personalized, compassionate care. We are always here to answer any questions, address your concerns, and ensure your comfort and well-being at every step. We invite you to call 602-840-5300 to schedule your appointment or book online today at drjohnharman.com!