Wisdom tooth removal or extraction – a common concern. Patients often ask us, “When should I have my wisdom teeth removed?”
Many patients ask Dr. Zachary this question throughout treatment and his answer is always the same: “It depends.” Dr. Zachary has always used strict criteria to determine if wisdom teeth or 3rd molars need to be removed.
A wisdom tooth protrudes outwards from the gumline at the back of the lower teeth.
- if the wisdom teeth are pathologic or cystic (meaning they look damaging or present like a cyst on an xray),
- if they are compromising adjacent structures (causing damage to other teeth, for instance),
- if they are unable to be adequately cleaned if in the mouth,
- if they have large cavities and/or require extensive restorations.
The timing of wisdom tooth removal is dependent upon many factors as well, and Dr. Zachary works closely with many of the oral surgeons in South Orange County to ensure the proper timing and seamless teamwork on the patient’s behalf.
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