Informative Facts About Wisdom Teeth

Even though most of us will have to deal with them at some point in our lives, there is much about wisdom teeth that the average patient doesn’t know. For instance, where did they get the moniker, “wisdom teeth,” and why are they so often extracted, if the general rule is to try and preserve your natural teeth? The answers to these and other questions about wisdom teeth may surprise you, but some of those answers can help you better protect your smile if your wisdom teeth become a problem.

The Thing About Wisdom Teeth (or Third Molars)

• Your third molars, which are the last to erupt at the ends of your dental ridges, are no smarter or wiser than your other teeth. On the contrary, the name “wisdom teeth” stems from the age during which they typically erupt (between the ages of 17 and 25), which was once commonly known as the age of wisdom.
• Wisdom teeth grow naturally, but in some cases, they can do so in a way that disturbs and damages the teeth, gums, and jawbone around them. Known as wisdom tooth impaction, the molars can grow at an angle against your other teeth due to limited space in the jawbone and dental ridge. When it happens, the molars will need to be extracted to avoid further damage to your dental health.
• Fortunately, not everyone is bound to experience wisdom tooth trouble. Some people can grow all four of their wisdom teeth without experiencing issues, while some may not grow their wisdom teeth at all. If you’ve grown yours and are wondering whether or not they should be extracted, then we can examine them closely and help you decide the best course of action.

ABOUT YOUR ARLINGTON HEIGHTS DENTIST:

Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.