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Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed? Marietta, GA

Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth do not always need to come out, but it is recommended for a large number of patients.  These 3rd set molars begin to emerge anytime between the ages of 15 to 20 years.  Unfortunately, wisdom teeth have a hard time following a normal pattern of growth and emergence.  Many times they will either partially erupt or fail to emerge through the gum line and become impacted.  While impacted teeth produce pain that is hard to ignore, not all wisdom teeth complications have symptoms.  Therefore, asking whether or not you should have your wisdom teeth out is a very common question – and one that requires professional judgment from your dentist.

An oral examination and panoramic x-ray will be used to help your dentist determine if you should have your wisdom teeth extracted or not.  If the answer is yes, you likely fall into one of the following three categories:

Partial Eruption

What’s so bad about a wisdom tooth that only partially erupts through the gum tissue?  Unfortunately, this scenario swings the door wide open for infection.  The partially erupted tooth allows a convenient opening for food and bacteria to get stuck.  Since the area is almost impossible to keep clean, an infection or decay becomes a strong possibility. You may start to experience pain, swelling and tenderness, which indicates you need to see your dentist about wisdom tooth extraction.

Erupted But Decayed

Perhaps your wisdom teeth actually behaved and fully erupted like they were supposed to.  You are still not out of the woods.  Because wisdom teeth are the 3rd set of molars to emerge, they can be very difficult to keep clean, which means they decay easily.  Rather than investing in cavity treatment over and over again on these teeth, it is often better to just have them removed.

Impacted

Many times the wisdom teeth become wedged into the next tooth, which creates unhealthy pressure and damage to your neighboring teeth.  This also sets the stage for nerve damage, decay and shifting teeth.

Although you may not be too keen on the idea of getting some teeth pulled, it is a minor sacrifice to protect the health of your future smile.  Wisdom teeth extraction is performed under sedation dentistry and an experienced dentist will ensure your discomfort is minimized.  Many patients can resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Paul Gilreath IV, Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta

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Our Client Reviews
Gilreath Family Dentistry

Sarah Khatib

Dr. Daniel Lee is the best dentist I've seen. She's so considerate of your fear of the dentist and was so painless although multiple procedures were done at the same time to save me a visit. Will definitely be coming here for years to come Il!

Susan

Dr. Gilreath is incredible with my kids. They love going to the dentist now! And this busy mom loves the warm neck wraps, the soft music and enjoying a latte while I relax!

Kenneth H.

Was lucky enough to find these guys when I got insurance that my old dentist did not take. Very professional and friendly staff! Office has the latest greatest technology as well. If you're looking for a new dentist, search no further!

Susie L.

Very personable and friendly, they took the time to go over my complex dental history and did not pressure me into anything. They gave their recommendations and priced out any options I had. Great group!

Camille Y.

Dr. Gilreath and his staff are top notch. I received the best cleaning I've ever had while watching my favorite show. The Doctor and his staff were all very polite, friendly, and courteous. They explained everything to me clearly and presented me with options in a gentle way that didn't make me feel pressured at all. It's obvious they really care about the wellbeing of their patients. The facility and equipment is really nice as well. I will definitely be back!

Juan R.

Always willing to work around my kids and my schedules. Today I had a long appointment. They started on time and always made sure I was comfortable and that the pain was managed so the procedure could’ve been completed without issues. Very courteous and professional staff.

Lucia B.

Awesome dental practice! The staff is friendly and efficient. Dr. Gilreath is thorough and versed in the latest technology and procedures. I love that he can make crowns in the office while you wait (so no walking around with a temporary crown for days or weeks). I would strongly recommend this dental practice!

Matthew W.

I've been going here for about a little over a year now. I've had a few cleanings, a filling, and started Invisiline so far. Hands down, the best run dental office I've ever been to. In the past at other dental offices I often had to wait 30 or more minutes beyond my appointment time before being seen. At Dr. Gilreath's office I've been seen on time every time. They seem to have systems in place to make every part of your visit run smoothly. From how they took x-rays, to billing and appointments, to the work done by the hygienist/dentist, everything seems to run like a well oiled machine. On top of that all the staff are all friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. The office space itself is also quite nice. Very clean, well maintained, and seems very "up to date" with their equipment. If you're looking for a dentist and are anywhere in the northwest metro area I would highly recommend Dr. Gilreath.

Our Office

Gilreath Family Dentistry

200 White St NW
Marietta, GA 30060

Call to Schedule an Appointment:
(770) 796-7081

Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta waiting room Marietta GA.