There are certain parts of our body that we don’t need to carry around for our entire lives. Sometimes, we are not bothered by them and forget they could be a problem—until they become one. For instance, some people get their appendix removed early in life.
It’s that small finger-shaped pocket attached to the large intestine. Researchers have found it could be a storage unit for gut bacteria to step out and help with illnesses like diarrhea. But in general, the appendix is more of a problem. If that pocket gets food stuck, it can get infected and then burst. Appendicitis is a serious problem if it’s not treated quickly.
Sometimes, people remove their appendix as a preventive strategy. Maybe they plan to travel far and wide where medical care isn’t readily available if something happens. It’s an intelligent way to handle it. Wisdom teeth are other body parts that can cause serious health issues if ignored. It’s smart to pay attention when there’s pain in the back of the jaw. That is why wisdom teeth extraction is a common oral surgery practice.
Late Bloomers will still need Wisdom Tooth Extraction
If you bypassed wisdom tooth removal as a teenager, that doesn’t mean you are in the clear for the rest of your life. Some teenagers experienced pain early and had it done, or their parents didn’t want to see an investment in braces go to waste. Impacted wisdom teeth can push and crowd other teeth, ruining years of dental work. Some Bay Area locals may be “late bloomers.” They haven’t felt pain in the back of their jaws until their 20s. If that’s the case, they shouldn’t ignore the discomfort. Impacted wisdom teeth can be a serious problem at any time. They can promote bacteria and gum disease and cause infection in the mouth, leading to more tooth removal in the future. The Cleveland Clinic has a good overview and photos about impacted wisdom teeth.
Many people start out on their own may be on a tight budget. A young adult might be concerned about the cost of oral surgery. That should never be a barrier to maintaining a healthy smile. Our clinic team can review the financial details, including dental insurance. Then, we can help create an affordable payment plan. And if someone in their 20s is still covered by their parents’ dental insurance, it may be a good time to schedule the surgery to prevent future issues!
Whether someone is experiencing pain from impacted back teeth or their mouth feels just fine, it’s always a good time to consider wisdom teeth extraction. A healthy smile means a better quality of life moving forward. If you have questions about oral surgery, visit our Q&A page. Our clinic staff is available to help schedule an appointment to discuss anyone’s concerns about their wisdom teeth.
