Common reasons for extraction include impaction, where the teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly, leading to pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth. Additionally, if wisdom teeth are partially erupted, they can create openings for bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are located at the back of your mouth and don’t always require removal. If they are healthy, fully erupted, correctly aligned, and can be effectively cleaned as part of your regular oral hygiene routine, they may not need to be extracted.

However, many individuals experience complications with their wisdom teeth due to insufficient space in the jaw. Through X-rays and scans, dentists can identify potential issues with your wisdom teeth before they cause pain, allowing for proactive management.

Common Issues Associated with Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth may erupt at various angles—sometimes horizontally—which can lead to several serious dental problems, including:

• Impaction: Wisdom teeth that remain completely hidden within the jaw can become impacted, possibly leading to cysts or tumors.
• Partially Erupted Teeth: If wisdom teeth only emerge partially, they can create a breeding ground for bacteria. Due to their location, these teeth are often difficult to clean, increasing the risk of gum disease or infection.
• Crowding: Insufficient space for wisdom teeth to emerge can crowd or damage adjacent teeth, leading to misalignment.
• Cavities: Wisdom teeth are notoriously hard to keep clean, making them susceptible to cavities that may not be easily restored.

When to Consider Wisdom Tooth Removal

At Professional Dental, we typically recommend wisdom tooth removal during a patient’s late teens. Extracting these teeth at a younger age, before the roots have fully developed, often results in a smoother surgical procedure and quicker recovery. Many patients choose to have their wisdom teeth removed as a preventive measure, even if they aren’t currently experiencing negative side effects.

If you decide to delay wisdom tooth removal, it’s important to consult your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent pain
• Recurrent infections of the soft tissue behind the lower last tooth
• Signs of gum disease
• Significant tooth decay

Discuss the position and health of your wisdom teeth with us at Professional Dental. Together, we can determine the best course of action tailored to your individual needs and oral health.