I’m Postponing Dental Treatment Because It’s Not Bothering Me

Have you been told by a dentist or orthodontist that you require specialized oral health treatment such as the extraction of wisdom teeth? Are you postponing treatment because you feel it is unnecessary? Most of the time, a procedure is recommended because it will benefit the state of your oral health and wellbeing. For example, postponing or foregoing wisdom teeth removal can have many negative consequences on your health and quality of life. When it comes to removing wisdom teeth, your general dentist will likely refer you to an oral surgeon. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializes in treating conditions and damage done to all oral structures and the facial region.

How does postponing extractions affect oral health?

Extracting teeth, especially wisdom teeth, is necessary when the tooth is causing issues or is not salvageable with root canal therapy and restorations. When a tooth is not savable, it can endanger the health of all neighboring structures including teeth, gums, and bone. Foregoing extraction can cause severe infections called abscesses along with orthodontic problems and discomfort like headaches.

Why are wisdom teeth so problematic to my health?

The main reason wisdom teeth cause so many problems is the fact that they emerge many years after tooth transition. Tooth transition is a period during adolescence where baby teeth are replaced by permanent, adult teeth. Wisdom teeth come in much later, between the ages of 17 and 25, and they rarely have room to emerge through the gums. Wisdom teeth are often caught beneath the gums, with only a small part of a tooth’s crown exposed. On top of crowding teeth, they are very prone to infection.

Will removing wisdom teeth prevent many health complications?

Yes, having your wisdom teeth extracted can prevent decay and gum disease. Receiving treatment as early as possible will also reduce the likelihood of developing orthodontic problems and discomfort associated with third molar eruption.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with our oral surgeons, call Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates at 405-624-1300 today.