When it comes to your oral health, being proactive is crucial to maintaining a bright, healthy smile. Along with at-home brushing and flossing, as well as regular check-ups with a dentist, you should also be proactive about wisdom teeth removal. Most people lack the room to accommodate the third set of molars, so extraction can prevent quite a few issues. 

3 Reasons to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed

1. Avoid Pain and Discomfort

Many people don't experience pain when their wisdom teeth first come in, so they don't see the point of having them removed. Dentists urge patients to schedule extraction at this stage because it can help you avoid the discomfort of painful third molars later on. 

This procedure is very common, and your dentist will ensure you remain comfortable throughout. On the other hand, leaving third molars in place can lead to bothersome aches and pains.  

2. Prevent More Serious Issues

Along with pain, emerging third molars can also cause your teeth to become crowded. A lack of space may cause teeth to be pushed out of their proper position and result in the need for braces or aligners. 

It will be more difficult to clean between the teeth when spaces are too tight, which increases your cavity risk. Wisdom teeth can also become infected if they become impacted. Impaction occurs when the tooth fails to break through the gum, which can contribute to infections. 

3. Ensure an Easier Procedure

Removing teeth after the root has fully developed tends to be more challenging than removing them early on. This has to do with root development, as the tooth root will anchor firmly to the jaw bone as it grows. Having teeth removed as soon as your dentist identifies them makes for a simpler process and faster recovery time. 

A quality dental clinic will provide safe and effective wisdom teeth removal. That's why so many people in Richmond, KY, rely on the oral health services provided by Mark Stephens, DMD. Along with preventive care, this dental team also performs comprehensive procedures like tooth extraction, bridges, and dental crowns. And if you find yourself experiencing an urgent issue after-hours, feel free to contact them. Schedule an appointment by calling (859) 626-0069, or visit the website to learn more about their services.