The purpose of braces and other forms of orthodontic treatment at Kemp Orthodontics is to correct malocclusion, also known as crooked or crowded teeth, or “bad bites.” Past orthodontic practice dictated that wisdom teeth be removed, especially in cases of crowding. The wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come in, and are officially known as the third molars. The wisdom teeth typically erupt, or break the surface of the skin, in late teens.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth are impacted. That means they cannot break through the gum tissue. This happens if the mouth or jaw is too small to accommodate the third molars. Impacted wisdom teeth can become infected, and some dentists and orthodontists may want to remove them as prophylaxis to prevent possible future infection. The greatest danger is pericoronitis, a potentially dangerous infection that can occur in the gum area around an impacted wisdom tooth, or around a wisdom tooth that has erupted.
At Kemp Orthodontics we will make a recommendation based on a panorex x-ray. This x-ray will let Dr. Kemp know the position and size of the third molars and he will be able to let the patient know the timing of extractions if needed. If you need any additional information about wisdom teeth please contact Kemp Orthodontics and it would be our pleasure to help you.
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