Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that usually erupt in late teens or early 20s. The American Dental Society recommends scheduling an evaluation of your teen's wisdom teeth between the ages of 16 and 19. This is because, prior to age 20, the roots of the teeth are not fully developed and allow an easier extraction procedure as well as recovery! While the very thought of wisdom teeth removal may strike fear in your teen, today's modern technology and years of experience perfecting the procedure have made wisdom teeth extraction a common procedure. Why, you ask, do I need my wisdom teeth extracted? There are several reasons to schedule wisdom teeth removal during summer:
1. Wisdom teeth are best removed BEFORE they cause problems.
These third molars may cause overcrowding and misalignment in your other teeth. Our jaws are smaller than those of our ancestors and most of us do not have room for this third set of molars. Additionally, if your teen has gone through braces, this is reason enough to have his/ her wisdom teeth removed before they cause his/ her teeth to move and create the need for a second round of orthodontia!
If your jaw does not have room for your wisdom teeth, they may cause not only crowding and misalignment but also impaction and even an abcess. Wisdom teeth may fail to fully erupt thus leaving a pocket where bacteria can build up and cause infection.
2. Summer usually means no school or sports. While recovery time differs from person to person, your teen will typically need to rest for 2-3 days to recover from the procedure. During summer, you won't have to worry about missing classes or extracurricular activities.
3. For your college-age kid, summer is, again, the perfect time to schedule wisdom teeth removal. No one wants a call that their son or daughter is in pain and needs to see an unfamiliar dentist miles from home. Your son or daughter will be in good hands not only with your trusted family dentist but also with being home so you can be sure they stay rested, nourished and hydrated following surgery.
4. Popsicles and ice cream! While recovering from their procedure, your teen can indulge in soft, cold, non-acidic summertime treats. Always remember, NO STRAW! Plenty of popsicles or snowcones will help your patient feel better!
Dr. Gerard Wasselle has more than 30 years experience in wisdom teeth extraction. As your trusted family dentist in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Dr. Gerard Wasselle will make your experience as pain-free as possible. If your wisdom teeth are causing you problems, call our office at 954-928-1666 to schedule a consultation today.
