For parents of teens, incoming wisdom teeth may be a bit of a mystery. Maybe their own parents handled theirs when they were removed, or maybe they never had theirs removed. But it is very important not to underestimate the possible damage that these third molars can do if they erupt improperly.
They can cause serious changes in your child’s alignment, often right after or even during serious orthodontic procedures. Obviously, this can be not only harmful to your pocketbook, it can lead to major problems for your child and their smile. And the quicker the teeth are identified, the more options we have in time and method of extraction. By waiting, you have no idea as to where they are growing and how.
So today, your Seattle, WA dentist explains the importance in routine examinations for your teen. The more reliable and consistent the imagery your dental professional has at their disposal, the more tools they have in ensuring a healthy and happy smile!
Be Open
Sometimes, teens will mask their pain, hoping that maybe the situation will right itself with time. And that’s a fair assumption, as at that age, the body is changing so rapidly. Teens are constantly battling issues with their body that grow normally, if awkwardly.
So often, teens will wait too long to express their discomfort, long after they first experience it. An environment where discussions about wisdom teeth are open can lead to a much easier outcome.
Also, teens today are living with a constant barrage of activity, with seemingly very little free time. They (and let’s face it, probably you) do not want to even consider the possibility of being laid up for a few days due to dental surgery. But waiting doesn’t do you any favors, and the more knowledge and history your dentist has, the more tools they have at their disposal.
Be Honest
When your child has seen signs of their wisdom teeth, it is important to teach them to monitor their growth and movement as best as possible. A healthy knowledge of the state of your mouth can give you the tools to know when dental help is needed.
If they have experienced any movement of the existing teeth due to the wisdom teeth, it may be time to consult a dentist. X-rays are incredibly beneficial in determining the growth and path of movement of incoming teeth. If the dentist determines that they need to be extracted, it is important to have them removed before collision with the existing permanent teeth. Otherwise, the positioning of the teeth may be altered, or a tooth might crack.
Listen To Them
If your teen is experiencing jaw pain or discomfort, make sure that you don’t simply brush it off. You might think they are simply being overdramatic, but there are very real biological matters at hand here. When people are in pain, they tend to not be the best company. So try to understand that the longer you wait, the worse they will feel. And nobody wants to leae someone else in pain, or in the shadow of possible misalignment.
Call Us Today!
Schedule an appointment today! Call Hygge Laser Dentistry office in Seattle, WA, today at 206-789-2555. We also proudly serve the residents of Shoreline, Edmonds, Crown Hill, Loyal Heights, and all surrounding communities.
