The upcoming holidays mean teens get lots of time off school. If your teen has been experiencing discomfort because of their impacted wisdom teeth, now is the perfect time to schedule surgery! Your teen will need a few days to fully recover after the procedure, and what better time than during a holiday break? Here are three reasons why wisdom teeth removal is beneficial:
- Wisdom teeth can cause decay and infection. Wisdom teeth that have partially erupted through the gums can easily trap bacteria. If normal brushing and flossing can’t reach these areas, the teeth are at risk for decay and gum disease. In both instances, infection can cause damage to other healthy teeth, gums, and bone.
- Wisdom teeth can harm other teeth. Wisdom teeth that grow sideways can move directly into molars. This not only damages the roots of these molars but can cause crowding that reverses costly orthodontic treatment. These crowded teeth become more susceptible to plaque and tartar buildup that leads to decay and infection.
- Wisdom teeth can be painful. Impacted wisdom teeth sometimes aren’t uncomfortable, but they often cause chronic pain that may also affect comfortable jaw movement, too. Sometimes, wisdom teeth can also lead to painful cysts or swollen gums that can lead to discomfort.