Wisdom Tooth Extractions in Olympia, WA

Wisdom teeth, sometimes called 3rd Molars,  begin to form beneath the jaw when a child is about seven years old. However, until your child is between mid-to-late teens and early adulthood, wisdom teeth should not cause pain or other problems. In our late teens and early 20s, our wisdom teeth begin to push toward eruption. Our children’s dentist will monitor the wisdom teeth as they erupt to help you decide if wisdom tooth extraction is necessary.

DID YOU KNOW?

Most humans have four wisdom teeth, but some are born with fewer and though it’s rare, some are born with five.

Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Extractions

When your teen’s wisdom teeth cause any of the following issues, our dentist will probably recommend extraction.

• Cavities or infections become a problem
• Gum inflammation, infection, and pain
• Dental crowding and bite changes
• Impaction

We prefer to take a conservative approach to children’s dental health, but when wisdom teeth pose a threat to oral health, esthetics, and comfortable function, extraction is a wise choice.

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

To help you decide whether wisdom teeth extractions are a wise decision for your teenager, consider the benefits of this procedure.

• Prevent potential future problems: Wisdom teeth are hard to keep clean, so they can develop tooth decay and infections. Impacted third molars can develop painful abscesses or cysts.
• Relief from wisdom teeth pain: Some people experience a toothache in the third molars as they erupt or try to erupt. Furthermore, wisdom teeth can cause pain throughout adulthood. Extracting wisdom teeth alleviates associated toothaches and jaw pain.
• Crowding prevention: Many mouths are simply not big enough to accommodate the full development of wisdom teeth. In these situations, large third molars cause crowding that may negatively affect a comfortable, healthy bite and the pleasant esthetics of a smile.

Comfort During Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Extraction sounds invasive, doesn’t it? Don’t worry! Our experienced children’s dentists have performed many extractions, particularly of wisdom teeth. Our goal is to keep your child comfortable during the wisdom teeth extractions. Our dentist will review pain relief and sedation options that are available during the extraction to ensure the best outcome.

After the extractions are completed, it is important to follow the recovery instructions we provide. Following these instructions will help reduce recovery time and pain, so your kiddo can be back in action as soon as possible!

Contact Us Today Regarding Wisdom Tooth Extractions

If your teenager is experiencing wisdom tooth pain, contact our office today. Our dentist will review your child’s unique case, answer any questions you have, and make sure they are well taken care of. Contact our office to schedule your appointment today!