Wisdom teeth, or third molars, as commonly referred to, appear around the ages of 17 to 25. In some instances, a person will experience no issues with these teeth coming in, not so for others. So if you are the searching type who always looks for tooth extraction near you, you are probably contemplating the need for wisdom teeth removal. This blog reviews the main reason for wisdom teeth removal, disadvantages of the operation, and advantages.
Why Do People Remove Their Wisdom Teeth?
Located at the utmost rear end of the mouth are the wisdom teeth. While some individuals are advised against removal, most will have to undergo the procedure swayed by a number of factors:
- Impacted teeth: This normally occurs with the wisdom teeth, which a person develops when they are older and are, if often, half-way within the jawbone or lying underneath the gums. This can cause pain or swelling or even lead to infections.
- Crowding: They may come up against other teeth, forcing them out of their position.
- Cavities or decay: Where the wisdom teeth are located, there is often little to no space. Bacteria are most likely to be close to the gums, and cavities may develop as well as an infection.
In most cases, dentists will wait until the wisdom teeth have been removed before damage or more serious issues are presented. Although it is normal for a person to undergo wisdom teeth removal around late teens or early twenties, they do so preemptively to avert such issues.
What Are the Side Effects of Removing Wisdom Teeth?
Before undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, it’s important to know the potential side effects. While most people recover smoothly, some might experience:
- Swelling and discomfort: This is common after the surgery and usually lasts a few days.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur but should stop after a few hours. If it continues, it’s crucial to consult your dentist.
- Dry socket: If the blood clot in the tooth socket becomes dislodged, it can expose the bone and lead to pain.
- Infection: Though rare, infections can develop at the site of the extraction.
Overall, these side effects are temporary, and your dentist will provide guidance on how to manage them for a smooth recovery.
What Are the Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Removal?
There are several benefits to getting your wisdom teeth removed, especially if they pose a risk to your oral health:
- Prevents damage to nearby teeth: Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth can cause damage to surrounding teeth by pushing against them.
- Reduces the risk of oral infections: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, leading to gum infections, tooth decay, and cysts.
- Less pain in the future: Removing problematic wisdom teeth early can save you from future discomfort or complications.
- Improved alignment: If you’ve had orthodontic work done, removing wisdom teeth can help maintain straight teeth by reducing pressure on other molars.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a preventative measure that can save you from more severe dental problems later on.
When Should You Consider Keeping Your Wisdom Teeth?
Not everyone needs to remove their wisdom teeth. Here are some scenarios where it may be safe to keep them:
- Fully erupted and positioned correctly: If your wisdom teeth have come in fully and are properly aligned, there’s no need for extraction.
- Healthy gums: As long as your wisdom teeth aren’t causing infections or gum disease, they might not require removal.
- No pain or discomfort: If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing any symptoms, your dentist might monitor them but not recommend extraction.
It’s essential to have regular dental checkups to keep an eye on your wisdom teeth and determine if removal is necessary.
Township Dental Wellness: Your Trusted Partner for a Healthy Smile!
If you’re uncertain whether to keep or remove your wisdom teeth, consulting a dentist in Legacy can help you make the right decision for your oral health. At Township Dental Wellness, we’re here to provide experienced care and guidance when it comes to wisdom tooth removal or any other dental concerns.
Call or email us to book your appointment at Township Dental Wellness today!
