Many people wonder if wisdom tooth removal is something that they need in order to maintain optimal oral health and comfort. Because each patient is unique, the answer to this question depends largely upon a number of factors. At Cowlitz River Dental in Castle Rock, WA, Dr. L. Blaine Kennington and his caring staff are always happy to offer insight and information regarding the status of your oral health, as well as advice that can help you make an informed decision regarding certain procedures – this includes help answering the question, “Do I need wisdom tooth removal?”
Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal
There are a number of reasons that wisdom tooth extraction is recommended. In many cases, the presence of wisdom teeth may contribute to the overcrowding of other teeth throughout the mouth. In addition to the cosmetic drawbacks of crowding, this problem can increase your risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease due to the fact that crowded teeth are more difficult to clean properly. Another reason that wisdom teeth are removed involves the health of your gums. If a wisdom tooth erupts partially through the gum, the resulting opening in the gingival tissue can serve as a potential site of infection.
The most common reason for wisdom tooth extraction is impaction. When a tooth is impacted, it becomes trapped within the jaw and may cause damage to bone tissue, nerves, and adjacent teeth. Timely removal helps to prevent this damage before it becomes serious and painful for the patient.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Do you suspect that you may be suffering from an impacted wisdom tooth? Contact our office today to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Kennington. We are always happy to welcome new and existing patients for oral health evaluations, oral surgery consultations, cosmetic treatment planning, and more. Our conveniently located dental practice in Castle Rock, WA also happily serves patients in Lewis County, Kelso, Longview, and beyond. Our team can’t wait to help you discover real relief from wisdom tooth pain, allowing you to smile comfortably and happily once again.