Understanding Wisdom Teeth: What You Need to Know
Wisdom teeth — the last set of molars to emerge — often make their debut during the late teens or early twenties. While some people experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, many face complications that require professional attention. At Aaron Birch Family Dental in Grand Junction, CO, we help patients understand their dental health and make the best decisions for their smiles — including when it comes to wisdom teeth.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of your mouth. Most adults develop four — two on the top and two on the bottom. They are considered “vestigial,” meaning they once served a purpose for our ancestors who needed strong molars to chew rougher diets. Today, however, our jaws are smaller and often don't have the room to accommodate these extra teeth.
Common Problems with Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth don't grow in properly, they can lead to a number of dental issues. These are some of the most common complications:
Impaction: Wisdom teeth that don’t fully emerge from the gums can become trapped or “impacted,” causing pain, swelling, and infection.
Crowding: Extra molars can push against neighboring teeth, leading to shifting, crowding, and misalignment.
Tooth Decay: Because they’re so far back, wisdom teeth are harder to clean properly, making them more prone to cavities.
Gum Disease: Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can make gums more vulnerable to inflammation and infection.
Jaw Pain: Pressure from erupting or impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to jaw pain and tension headaches.
Why Wisdom Teeth Often Need to Be Removed
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but if there's a high risk of future problems — or symptoms are already present — removal is usually the best course of action. At Aaron Birch Family Dental, we use digital imaging and X-rays to monitor the development and positioning of your wisdom teeth. If we see signs of potential issues, we’ll talk through your options with you and recommend whether removal is the safest step.
Why Dr. Birch Refers Wisdom Tooth Extractions to Oral Surgeons
While we provide a wide range of general dentistry services in our Grand Junction office, wisdom tooth extraction — especially when the teeth are impacted or close to nerves — is a delicate procedure that requires advanced surgical training. For your safety and comfort, Dr. Birch refers wisdom teeth removals to trusted local oral surgeons who specialize in these procedures. Oral surgeons have the tools, experience, and sedation options needed to perform complex extractions efficiently and with minimal discomfort. We work closely with these specialists to ensure you receive seamless care from consultation through recovery.
Your Smile is in Good Hands at Aaron Birch Family Dental
Whether you're experiencing symptoms related to your wisdom teeth or just want to stay proactive about your oral health, we’re here to help. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is committed to giving you the best care possible — and guiding you through each step with compassion and clarity.
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