Why do we have Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are remnant third molars that used to help human ancestors in grinding down plant tissue. The common theory is that the skulls of human ancestors had larger jaws with more teeth, which were possibly used to help chew down foliage to compensate for a lack of ability to efficiently digest the cellulose that makes up a plant cell wall. As human diets changed, smaller jaws gradually evolved, yet the third molars, or wisdom teeth, still commonly develop in human mouths.

Does everyone need to have their wisdom teeth removed?

Wisdom teeth may not need to be extracted if they grow in completely and are functional, painless, cavity-free, disease-free and in a hygenic environment with healthy gum tissue. They do, however, require regular, professional cleaning, annual check-ups and periodic X-rays to monitor for any changes.

What if I leave my wisdom teeth in?

An impacted wisdom tooth can damage neighboring teeth or become infected. Because its in an area thats hard to clean, it can also invite bacteria that lead to gum disease. Oral bacteria can also travel through your bloodstream and lead to infections and illnesses that affect your heart, kidneys and other organs. In some cases, a cyst or tumor can form around the base of the impacted tooth, which can lead to more serious problems as it hollows out the jaw and damages surrounding nerves, teeth and other parts of your mouth and face.

What are the indications for removal of wisdom teeth?

Infections and/or periodontal (gum) disease Cavities that cant be restored Cysts, tumors or other pathologies Damage to neighboring teeth

Salt Lake City, Utah

Wisdom Teeth

Introduction

West Jordan Wisdom Teeth Removal

By the age of eighteen, the average adult has 32 teeth; 16 teeth on the top and 16 teeth on the bottom. Each tooth in the mouth has a specific name and function. The teeth in the front of the mouth (incisors, canine and bicuspid teeth) are ideal for grasping and biting food into smaller pieces. The back teeth or molar teeth are used to grind food up into a consistency suitable for swallowing.

The average mouth is made to hold only 28 teeth. It can be painful when 32 teeth try to fit in a mouth that holds only 28 teeth. These four other teeth are your Third Molars, also known as wisdom teeth.

Why Should I Remove My Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last to emerge in the mouth. When they come in properly aligned and the surrounding gum tissue is healthy, removal is not necessary.

However, this ideal scenario is rare. Wisdom teeth often require extraction when they are unable to erupt correctly. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum, or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. Impacted wisdom teeth can adopt various positions within the bone as they attempt to find a pathway to erupt properly.

Poorly positioned, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to several issues. When only partially erupted, they create an opening where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections, swelling, stiffness, pain, and general discomfort. Additionally, the pressure from these emerging teeth can shift adjacent teeth, disrupting orthodontic treatments or natural alignment.

In more severe cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of tumors or cysts around the tooth, which may damage the jawbone and neighboring teeth. Removing the problematic wisdom teeth typically resolves these issues. To prevent such complications and reduce the risks associated with surgery, early removal is recommended.

Woman with long wavy dark hair smiling at her reflection in a mirror, wearing a white robe in a bright bathroom setting. - Wisdom Teeth in West Jordan, UT

Oral Examination

Dr. Urban will assess the position of your wisdom teeth and identify any potential current or future issues through a thorough oral examination and x-rays. Research indicates that early evaluation and intervention often lead to better outcomes. Typically, patients are first evaluated during their mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist, or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

All outpatient procedures are conducted under carefully chosen anesthesia to ensure maximum patient comfort. Dr. Urban is highly trained and licensed to administer a range of anesthesia options, allowing us to tailor the approach to your individual needs.

Removal

Typically, wisdom teeth removal is performed using one of three anesthesia options: local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia), or general anesthesia. We will thoroughly discuss these options and potential surgical risks, such as sensory nerve damage and sinus complications, with you before the procedure.

After the extraction, we will suture the gum tissue. To manage bleeding, you’ll need to bite down on the gauze placed in your mouth. You will rest in our office under our supervision until you are ready to go home.

When you are discharged, you will receive a post-operative kit that includes detailed care instructions, a prescription for pain relief and antibiotics, and a follow-up appointment for suture removal, scheduled for one week later. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 801-282-5363.

Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQ’s

Wisdom teeth are remnant third molars that used to help human ancestors in grinding down plant tissue. The common theory is that the skulls of human ancestors had larger jaws with more teeth, which were possibly used to help chew down foliage to compensate for a lack of ability to efficiently digest the cellulose that makes up a plant cell wall. As human diets changed, smaller jaws gradually evolved, yet the third molars, or wisdom teeth, still commonly develop in human mouths.
An impacted wisdom tooth can damage neighboring teeth or become infected. Because its in an area thats hard to clean, it can also invite bacteria that lead to gum disease. Oral bacteria can also travel through your bloodstream and lead to infections and illnesses that affect your heart, kidneys and other organs. In some cases, a cyst or tumor can form around the base of the impacted tooth, which can lead to more serious problems as it hollows out the jaw and damages surrounding nerves, teeth and other parts of your mouth and face.

Patient Reviews

I went home today and literally was blown away by how good my procedure looks! This is why you come to Dr. Urban and his team. I pulled out my license photo when I was 39 and I look just like that again. It’s amazing. Feel free to ask for before and after photos at the the office.

You will not be disappointed!

View Results – S.V.
Best experience! If you’re looking for a great result and great treatment, this is the place for you!

View Results R.C.
Mini facelift and I am loving it! The Drs follow up was beyond expectations. I feel so much more confident when meeting new people. I would do it again but only with Dr Urban.

View Results C.C.

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