Wisdom Teeth in Thousand Oaks

Third molars are the last teeth to appear in your mouth. Their name comes from the stage of life they appear in, often associated with maturity and wisdom.

• They are located behind the second molars and usually emerge between ages 18 and 25. 
• Some people get all four, some only a few, and some may never develop them. 

Our ancestors needed these teeth to chew harder foods, so their jaws were larger. Today, our jaws are smaller, and our diet is softer. 

Because of this, wisdom teeth sometimes grow crooked or become impacted, which can cause pain, swelling, or other dental problems.

Function of wisdom teeth

Even though not everyone needs them, wisdom teeth have important functions:

• Complete the adult set of teeth
• Help distribute bite force at the back of the mouth
• Support adjacent teeth in the jaw

When wisdom teeth grow correctly and do not cause problems, they can safely remain in the mouth.

When wisdom teeth can be kept

At our Thousand Oaks clinic, we carefully evaluate each tooth:

• They can be kept if they grow aligned, do not affect other teeth, and allow proper oral hygiene
• They are monitored with regular check-ups and X-rays to make sure they stay healthy
• Keeping them can be the best option if they perform their function without causing discomfort

When wisdom teeth should be removed

Some situations require extraction to prevent complications:

• Recurring pain or swelling
• Crooked or impacted teeth pressing on others
• Cysts or infections like pericoronitis
• Cavities that are hard to treat due to their position