Here’s an interesting topic that’s currently circulating in news outlets -- getting your wisdom teeth removed can possibly enhance your sense of taste! Can it be true? Is it a myth?
Join our Atlanta-based oral surgeons as we dive into this popular topic. First, let’s talk briefly about wisdom teeth removal.
Does everyone get their wisdom teeth removed?
Regardless of whether your wisdom teeth erupted normally above the gumline or they are impacted (stuck) below the gumline, you may benefit from getting them removed.
The doctors at Oral Surgery Specialists of Atlanta may recommend wisdom teeth removal early (usually during the mid to late teens) even if they haven’t begun to emerge from the gums yet. Why get wisdom teeth removed during the teenage years, you ask?
The removal process is generally safer if wisdom teeth are removed early because the roots of the teeth are not fully developed.
Younger patients are more likely to experience a quick recovery after surgery.
Early removal may prevent the potential injury to a nerve that runs through the lower jaw.
Lastly, some patients often wonder whether or not they need impacted wisdom teeth removed. If you have impacted wisdom teeth, it is always best to be evaluated by an experienced oral surgeon.
So you already know that getting your wisdom teeth removed can be beneficial, but can your sense of taste be impacted, too?
Can wisdom teeth removal impact your sense of taste?
A recent study claims that your sense of taste can slightly improve from the time someone removes their wisdom teeth up until approximately 20 years later (source). This interesting finding debunks previous research.
The researchers of the Penn Medicine study highlight the fact that further studies are needed to understand why the phenomena occurs and also to understand its implications in a clinical setting. Further studies would also help to determine which mechanisms are at play when it comes to your sense of taste improving after wisdom teeth extraction.
We’ll just have to wait and see what future researchers figure out, but in the meantime, let’s jump back into learning more about wisdom tooth extractions, specifically pain.
If you’re worried about the pain often associated with pulling wisdom teeth out, we have the solution...dental sedation.
Dental sedation options for wisdom teeth extractions
Drs. Aiken and Shessel have been extensively trained to administer hospital-level anesthesia. Oral Surgery Specialists of Atlanta offer multiple dental sedation options, including:
Local anesthesia
Nitrous oxide
General anesthesia
To learn more about oral sedation, visit our webpage here.
Is it finally time to get your wisdom teeth out?
If you’re experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth or if you’re at the recommended age of 15 to get your wisdom teeth evaluated by an oral surgeon, now is the best time to schedule an appointment.
Patients of Oral Surgery Specialists of Atlanta trust our oral surgeons, as evidenced by our patient reviews. If you need your wisdom teeth removed, call Oral Surgery Specialists of Atlanta for an appointment. We have office locations for wisdom teeth removal in Atlanta and Dunwoody.
We look forward to meeting you.
