Removing wisdom teeth helps keep young adults healthy

Nov. 16, 2010 - PRLog -- (Rapid City, SD) Most dentists recommend that young adult patients consider having their wisdom teeth removed, but new research shows that removing your third molars may help you stay healthy later in life.

According to a study by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, even asymptomatic wisdom teeth can lead to serious health problems, such as preterm birth and cardiovascular disease. In the study, 80 percent of young adults who kept their previously healthy wisdom teeth developed problems within seven years.

“It is usually easier and less painful to remove wisdom teeth in young adults, versus older patients,” said Dr. Anh Harper, a family dentist at Ray Dental Group in Rapid City. “When you’re younger, the roots are smaller and less developed, which makes the surgery less complicated. Older patients are also at a greater risk for disease and infection related to oral surgery.”

Wisdom teeth that are not extracted may become impacted, causing pain, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth. Even wisdom teeth that come in without problems may eventually cause disease, as they are difficult to reach and clean.

“Nearly 85 percent of all wisdom teeth will eventually need to be extracted, and it is often easier and beneficial to the patient to remove them early,” Harper said. “Removing third molars can help patients stay healthy now and later in life.”

While wisdom tooth extraction is not necessary for all patients, Harper recommends discussing the practice with your family dentist. The Rapid City dentist urges parents of teenagers to consult their dental practitioners to determine if and when their child’s wisdom teeth may need to be removed.

To schedule an appointment with Ray Dental or to learn more about the practice, visit http://www.raydental.com.

# # #

About Ray Dental Group
Founded in 1953 by Dr. Charles Ray, Ray Dental Group is committed to providing our patients of all ages with high quality dental care, convenience and comfort. Our team is constantly working to improve dental care techniques and expand our knowledge within the dental industry. For more information, visit http://www.raydental.com.