Glendale Wisdom Teeth Dentist Explains The Types of Wisdom Teeth

Written by Dr. McKay on Nov 15, 2011

Wisdom teeth can become suddenly problematic for many patients. These teeth begin to put pressure on neighboring teeth, causing soreness, and potentially jaw tenderness. Additionally, over time wisdom teeth can cause existing teeth to shift or turn along the gum line—potentially wrecking previous orthodontic work. Many patients avoid wisdom teeth extraction because they’re nervous about the proposition of undergoing an extraction. The truth is that wisdom teeth extraction varies depending on the state of your wisdom teeth, but no matter what the condition of your teeth our Glendale wisdom teeth dentists can get you the comfortable, efficient treatment you need.
 
What are the different states of wisdom teeth?
 
Wisdom teeth rarely fully erupt out of the gum and emerge as complete teeth. For this reason wisdom teeth may be extracted at several different stages of growth.
 
Impacted wisdom teeth don’t have enough room in the mouth to erupt and grow as normal teeth. These wisdom teeth often develop at an angle or sidewise, and thus they can put pressure on neighboring teeth and harm bite alignment. They can also remain trapped in the jawbone.
 
Partially erupted wisdom teeth may be partly covered by gum tissue, or only slightly emerge from the gum line. These teeth are prone to infection because it is difficult to clean teeth that are not fully above the gum. Sometimes it is faster to extract partially erupted wisdom teeth compared to impacted teeth, though this depends on the level of impaction, as well as other factors such as size of the tooth and mouth.
 
Troublesome wisdom teeth are an unfortunate reality for many adult patients. However, with modern technology and sedation techniques, wisdom teeth extraction can help you maintain a healthy and comfortable mouth post-procedure. Give our Glendale wisdom teeth dentists a call if you’d like more information or to schedule an appointment—(818) 334-2974.