The wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last to develop in the smile. Because of their positioning in the back of the mouth, and the fact that the rest of the teeth erupt out of the gum line years beforehand, these teeth tend to be a problem. They can:

• Become impacted if there is no room for them to erupt through the gum line
• Can be difficult to keep clean
• Become a problem with the development of periodontal disease or cavities
• Disrupt realignment of the smile from previous orthodontic work

Because of their location and the risk of disease and decay that they bring to the smile, many patients choose to have these teeth extracted. Extraction may be simple or surgical. If the wisdom tooth has come through the gum line and is accessible by the dentist, a simple extraction is performed. Surgical extraction requires the dentist to cut into the gums to access the tooth when it is unable to be reached by a provider. A surgical extraction is more invasive and does require more recovery time for the patient. However, it can remove a wisdom tooth that is impacted or has not yet disrupted orthodontic work.

Contact Dr. Jameela Jifri and associates at Scott and Derry Dental Care to learn more about the treatment you require. Her practice is conveniently located at 6521 Derry Road #7 in Milton, Ontario, and can be reached by phone at (855) 438-4999.