Wisdom teeth are the last molars to come in, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. While some people have no problems with them, many find these teeth cause swelling, infection, or crowding that affects their comfort and oral health. At Strawberry Hill Family Dental in Surrey, BC, patients receive trusted care and guidance on whether removal is the best option. Schedule your consultation today to see if a wisdom tooth extraction is right for you.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are also called third molars, and they are the final teeth to develop in the mouth. Because space is often limited, they can become impacted, which means they fail to emerge properly through the gums. This makes them harder to clean and more likely to lead to future issues.
- Late-developing molars: These usually erupt between ages 17 and 25, a time when your jaw has often stopped growing
- Frequently impacted: They may remain trapped under the gums or jawbone, which can lead to soreness or swelling
- Cause misalignment: When there isn’t enough space, they can push neighboring teeth out of place and undo past orthodontic work
- Harder to maintain: Even when they erupt fully, they sit far back in the mouth and are harder to brush and floss, raising the risk of decay
Reasons For A Wisdom Tooth Extraction
When wisdom teeth do not grow in correctly, they can create long-term problems for your smile. Extracting them helps prevent oral health concerns before they become difficult to manage. It also protects the health and alignment of your other teeth.
- Prevent gum infection: Food particles and bacteria can collect around partially erupted teeth, leading to recurring gum irritation
- Protect alignment: Crowding from wisdom teeth can shift other teeth, especially if you’ve had braces in the past
- Safeguard oral health: Impacted teeth can sometimes form cysts, which may damage bone or nearby teeth if left untreated
- Relieve ongoing discomfort: Pressure from these teeth often causes soreness in the jaw, making it harder to chew comfortably
Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted
Wisdom teeth can cause noticeable symptoms when they start to create problems. Recognizing these signs early gives you the chance to act before complications develop. Paying attention to these changes helps you protect your smile.
- Jaw soreness: Persistent tension or stiffness in the back of the mouth, especially when chewing
- Swelling or redness: Gums may become puffy or inflamed near the molars, making it uncomfortable to brush or floss
- Frequent headaches: Pressure from impacted teeth can radiate upward, often mistaken for sinus or tension headaches
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste: Food and bacteria can become trapped around partially erupted teeth, causing ongoing odor
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
Healing after wisdom tooth extraction is usually straightforward with proper care. Most people return to their routines within a few days, and following the right steps makes recovery easier. Simple precautions can make the process more comfortable.
- Use cold compresses: Applying ice packs during the first 24 hours helps control swelling and provides relief
- Choose soft foods: Options like yogurt, soups, smoothies, or scrambled eggs are gentle on the extraction site while you heal
- Avoid smoking: Even one cigarette can interfere with healing and increase the risk of dry socket, a painful condition
- Follow professional guidance: Taking prescribed medication and attending follow-ups ensures your recovery stays on track
Keep Your Smile Healthy & Comfortable
Choosing a trusted provider for your wisdom tooth extraction ensures safe and attentive care from start to finish. With expert guidance and personalized attention, you can feel confident knowing your oral health is protected. Patients in Surrey, BC can rely on experienced dental care that makes the process smooth and stress-free. Call today to schedule your wisdom tooth consultation and take the next step toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.