Wisdom Teeth Removal in Phoenix, AZ

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Phoenix, AZ

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Phoenix, AZ

Dental offices often perform tooth extractions in cases where a tooth cannot be saved, or would threaten the surrounding teeth. One very common type of tooth extraction is the removal of the wisdom teeth. In fact, it’s so common that it’s unusual to find someone who doesn’t need their wisdom teeth removed or hasn’t already had the procedure.

FAQs

The average human has three sets of molars that grow in at regular intervals throughout childhood. The first set comes in around age six. The second appears around age twelve. The third set comes in at approximately the same time we reach adulthood, around 18–20 years old.

That third set was sometimes referred to as a sign of maturity and having gained the wisdom of adulthood. Teeth of wisdom, or wisdom teeth.

Human mouths have not always been the same size.

Early in human history, life expectancy strongly coincided with dental health. The longer you could continue to eat without difficulty, the longer you could survive. Teeth often wore out quickly, so gaining a third set of brand new, healthy molars at adulthood could literally be a lifesaver.

As years progressed, and scientific understanding increased, we became better able to care for our teeth, care for our elderly, and properly prepare foods that were easier to eat. Gradually, having extra teeth mattered less to our survival. 

In these modern times, the average human jaw is much smaller than it used to be. The vast majority of people need to have their wisdom teeth removed because the extra teeth just don’t fit anymore.

Overcrowded teeth can cause a whole host of dental issues, including:

  • Bite misalignment.
  • Crooked or snaggled teeth.
  • Improper grinding or wear on the teeth.
  • Speech impediments.
  • Impacted teeth.
  • Dental spaces that are highly difficult to clean.
  • Higher risk of gum disease.
  • Stress on the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ.

Teeth that once were necessary are now often harmful to our overall dental health. Having your wisdom teeth removed can allow the rest of your teeth to take up the space they need.

Yes, it is common for wisdom teeth to cause headaches as they emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 years old. This is due to the wisdom teeth may exerting pressure on muscles or nerves surrounding the jaw.
No, it is not possible for wisdom teeth to grow back. However, it is possible to have more than the typical four wisdom teeth. These extra wisdom teeth are called “supernumerary” teeth.
A vestige is a biological structure that has little or no use due to evolution. While wisdom teeth were useful to early humans, they are now considered by many scientists as vestigial organs.

CONTACT HARRIS DENTAL ABOUT WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTION

If you have any questions about your treatment options for wisdom tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Harris Dental! We’ll be more than happy to answer questions, discuss your concerns, and help build a treatment plan that is perfect for you.

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

Sarah’s Story

“It has changed my confidence in many ways. I can smile more. [Dr. Joe Harris] has changed my life in more ways than I can ever tell him.”

Mary’s Story

“Before I used to hide my smile, and now I just can’t help but smile all the time!”

Nile’s Story

“It’s really brought me a lot of confidence that I didn’t even know I was lacking.”

We would love to hear from you!

Please feel free to call us at 480-428-0040 or email us using the contact form on this page!

We would love to hear from you!

Please feel free to call us at 480-428-0040 or email us using the contact form on this page!

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