Wisdom Tooth Removal

Digital x-ray of wisdom teeth in San Juan, CA.

Your last teeth to come in, known most commonly as your wisdom teeth, are your third molars. They have been referred to as the "teeth of wisdom" since the Seventeenth Century. Since these late molars usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25, you are thought to have entered adulthood and be "wiser" than when your other teeth erupted.

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the teeth farthest back in your jaw. For some people the wisdom teeth only partially erupt, or they may not erupt at all. Wisdom teeth that have not yet erupted may cause problems with neighboring teeth and gums. Teeth that have not erupted through the surface of the gum are often referred to as "impacted". This means that they are being forced against neighboring teeth or bone, preventing them from coming into the mouth in the correct biting position. Since they are the last teeth to come in, space is most likely very limited.

When wisdom teeth are trapped below the gum line and pushing against neighboring teeth, these molars can cause problems such as infections, cysts, or gum disease. This may cause damage to the roots of important permanent teeth.

The best time to remove wisdom teeth is before they cause problems. By the time the tooth develops painful symptoms, significant damage to nearby teeth may have already occurred. If you have questions about wisdom teeth examination or removal, contact our office today.

Know the Signs and Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When then wisdom teeth are impacted, there is a significant risk for complications. The problems may start with pain and bleeding gums, but when left untreated, the impacted teeth can cause: damage to the surrounding teeth; tooth or gum disease; and the development of cysts.

Do you think that your wisdom teeth might be impacted? These are some of the most common signs that you'll want to look for:

•	Difficulty chewing
•	Tenderness and pain near the gums in the back of your mouth
•	Headaches
•	Jaw swelling
•	Bleeding, reddened, tender, and swollen gums near were the wisdom tooth is located
•	A bad taste in your mouth coupled with bad breath

What Can Be Done About Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If your wisdom teeth are impacted, the best way to treat the problem is by taking out the teeth. Ideally, this should be done before the roots have fully formed, which will make the process easier and will lead to a faster healing period.

If you are experiencing any of the signs of impacted wisdom teeth, be sure to call us at (505) 333-8635 right away for guidance.

San Juan Oral & Facial Surgery

Photo of business sign outside of dental practice.

Dr. David Cundick, D.D.S.
2990 Pinon Frontage Rd, Suite 102
Farmington, NM 87402-5068
(505) 333-8635

San Juan Oral And Facial Surgery, 2990 Pinon Frontage Rd, Suite 102 Farmington, NM 87402 • (505) 333-8635 • sjofs.com • 3/19/2025 • Related Terms: oral surgeon Farmington NM •

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