Wise up about wisdom teeth: Options to stay ahead of problems with these late-developing teeth

At Royal Dental Practice, we are proud to serve the West Hills area of Los Angeles, California, with all the dental services our neighbors and their family members need under one well-appointed roof. Our dentist, Dr. Roya Shoffet, rarely refers patients to oral surgeons or other specialists. Dr. Shoffet has considerable training and onsite capabilities to perform many oral surgery procedures in-house. These capabilities include surgical extraction, not limited to the removal of partially or fully “impacted” wisdom teeth. 

Why a wisdom tooth can be the “problem child” of the dental world

For many individuals, the development of the third or back-most molars is a rite of passage. These teeth tend to develop in the latter teenage years, a phase of life when we are theoretically “gaining wisdom.” 

As with all conditions at our practice, Dr. Shoffet takes a proactive approach. She likes to get patients on a healthy schedule of regular check-ups at our office, starting early in childhood. During these routine exams, she monitors the development of the remaining teeth – including the third molars. 

Now, not all wisdom teeth will require removal. Not everyone develops wisdom teeth, or maybe only a few of these teeth will emerge. But, for around 85% of individuals, complications can arise due to the fact that these teeth develop so comparatively late in life. There is often insufficient space for them to grow in properly. And, even when they do break through the gums, they can still crowd out the neighboring teeth. Dr. Shoffet applies her considerable knowledge to make an appropriate recommendation based on your needs and in the best interests of your long-term health. Recommendations may include:

• Do nothing – Congrats! You are among the comparatively fortunate ones whose late-developing teeth appear to be lining up quite nicely in your smile
• Remove with a “simple” extraction – If the wisdom tooth is largely accessible in the smile, Dr. Shoffet can loosen and lift it from its socket without surgery. This is advised for teeth that erupted properly but still pose threats to neighboring teeth and tissues
• Perform a surgical extraction – Surgery may be in order for those patients whose wisdom teeth are either partially or fully “trapped” (impacted) in the jaw. Our doctor uses special and exacting techniques and instruments to remove the impacted teeth.

If you or a loved one are due for a check-up, schedule your visit today. During your appointment, Dr. Shoffet will examine your teeth and mouth. As needed, she will also discuss options for treatment, as well as options for sedative or sleep dentistry to support utmost relaxation and comfort. 

The Royal Dental Practice team in West Hills, Los Angeles, CA, welcomes your call to (818) 334-6655.

Share this Article