Wisdom Teeth: The Roommates Nobody Asked For
Ever feel like your mouth is hosting a surprise party for teeth that forgot to RSVP? Wisdom teeth are like that one last-minute guest who shows up late, takes up too much space, and refuses to leave quietly. But do they really need to go? If you’re wondering whether it’s time to part ways with your wisdom teeth, here’s what you should know.
Why Wisdom Teeth Can Be a Problem
While some wisdom teeth grow in without causing issues, others create complications that make you wonder why we still have them in the first place. Here are a few common problems that can arise:
Infection: When wisdom teeth only partially emerge, they leave behind gum pockets that trap bacteria, leading to painful infections like pericoronitis. A study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that pericoronitis is one of the most common complications of retained wisdom teeth.
Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth are often difficult to clean, making them a breeding ground for bacteria that contribute to gum disease. Research in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology shows that infections around wisdom teeth can increase the risk of periodontal disease in neighboring teeth.
Tooth Decay: Because wisdom teeth are so far back in the mouth, they can be tricky to reach with a toothbrush or floss. According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, wisdom teeth are significantly more prone to cavities than other molars.
Crowding & Shifting: Even if your wisdom teeth aren’t painful, they can push against your other teeth, potentially undoing years of orthodontic work.
Cysts & Jaw Damage: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes form cysts, which may damage the surrounding bone and even require more extensive treatment.
Because younger patients heal faster and experience fewer complications, wisdom teeth are often removed in the late teens or early 20s.
Why don’t wisdom teeth fit in our mouth?
You may be asking why our ancestors’ wisdom teeth fit in their mouth, but ours don’t. The book “Jaws” has a very interesting anthropological take on the subject. It closely aligns with our thinking at Teuscher Legacy Dental, and is highly recommended reading from Dr Andrew Huberman, Jared Diamond, Robert Sapolsky, and others.
Why Choose Teuscher Legacy Dental for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
At Teuscher Legacy Dental, we make the wisdom teeth removal process as seamless and stress-free as possible. Here’s what sets us apart:
Patient-Centered Comfort: From thorough consultations to post-op care, we prioritize your comfort at every step.
Personalized Attention: Because we know your dental history, we can make the best recommendations for your individual case and offer continuity of care.
Convenient In-Office Extractions: No need to travel to a specialist— Dr Brayden Teuscher performs most wisdom teeth removals right here in our St. Charles office.
Affordable Care: Our fees are often lower than those of oral surgeons, without sacrificing quality.
Sedation Options: We offer safe, effective oral sedation to help ease any anxiety you may have during the procedure.
When Should You See an Oral Surgeon?
While most wisdom teeth extractions can be performed in our office, there are certain cases where we may recommend an oral surgeon:
If IV sedation is necessary for a deeper level of anesthesia
If the teeth are severely impacted or in a particularly difficult position
If there is a high risk of nerve involvement or other surgical complexities
If we determine that an oral surgeon is the best option for you, we’ll guide you through the referral process and ensure you receive the best care possible.
Wisdom from Master Yoda
“Wisdom teeth- misnamed they are. Pain they bring. Wisdom, they do not!”
What to Expect When Having Wisdom Teeth Removed
We understand that any dental procedure can feel overwhelming, but we’ll be with you every step of the way. Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Consultation & X-Rays
During your initial visit, we’ll take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine whether removal is the best course of action. We’ll also discuss your sedation options to ensure a smooth, comfortable experience.
Step 2: The Procedure
On the day of your extraction, you’ll be in good hands. We’ll carefully remove the teeth while keeping you as comfortable as possible. Most procedures take less than an hour.
Step 3: Recovery & Healing
Every patient is different, but most people recover within a few days. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions, including tips on managing swelling, what to eat, and how to care for the extraction sites. We’re always just a phone call or text away if you have any concerns.
Wisdom Teeth Causing You Trouble? Let’s Talk.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, swelling, or just want to know whether your wisdom teeth should stay or go, we’re here to help. At Teuscher Legacy Dental, we’ve helped countless patients in St. Charles, Elburn, Geneva, and the surrounding areas navigate wisdom teeth removal with confidence. Schedule a consultation today, and let’s make a plan that’s right for you!
📍 Location: 40W131 Campton Crossings Drive, St. Charles, IL 60175
📞 Phone: 630-762-0000
🌐 Website: TeuscherDental.com
Sources:
A. Alqahtani et al., "Pericoronitis and Its Management in Young Adults," International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021.
S. D. White & M. L. Pharoah, "Oral Health Implications of Wisdom Teeth," Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 2012.
D. L. Weyant, & A. L. Jay, “Impacted Wisdom Teeth and Caries Risk: A Review,” Journal of the American Dental Association, 2013.
