The emergence of wisdom teeth can often be a painful experience. However, discomfort is not necessarily the only indication that they need to be removed. The decision to extract wisdom teeth is not always straightforward. You need the assistance of dental professionals and X-ray imaging to determine the right course of action.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of the mouth. They typically emerge last, leading to crowding and other complications. This is because the average human jaw has become narrower and smaller. This is due to a shift towards softer modern diets, and leaves less room for wisdom teeth to grow properly.
However, it is possible for wisdom teeth to grow in a healthy manner. If they are in a good position for biting, chewing, and cleaning, they may not be problematic at all. In most cases, though, one or more wisdom teeth do not have sufficient space to grow and emerge correctly, leading to various complications.
When is Removal Necessary?
When teeth are impacted, they can become trapped inside the gums, leading to painful infections or cysts. Partially emerged wisdom teeth can also pose a threat since the area around them can be challenging to clean. This can cause bacterial buildup and resulting in oral infection or gum disease. In some cases, wisdom teeth may need to be removed if they cause excessive crowding damage to nearby teeth, even if they have grown in completely.
While some oral surgeons suggest waiting for wisdom teeth to grow in fully, others may advise their removal at a younger age when recovery is more comfortable. If you think you need an operation or procedure, it’s always best to consult a trusted oral surgeon. Tooth or jaw pain, multiple infections near your molars, cysts, tumors, crowding damage, gum disease, and tooth decay are all signs that wisdom teeth removal may be necessary.
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to start a discussion with a dental professional about your options. If wisdom teeth need to be removed, the earlier the procedure takes place, the easier it will be for you to recover and return to your daily routine.
