The emergence of wisdom teeth can be a challenging experience, but it’s not always necessary to remove them. Determining whether or not to have your wisdom teeth extracted requires the guidance of a dental expert and x-ray imaging, as some individuals may not need their wisdom teeth removed at all.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of the mouth. They often cause issues due to crowding because the modern human jaw does not have enough space to accommodate them. This is primarily due to our softer modern diet, which results in a shorter and narrower jaw than early humans.
While not everyone may require wisdom tooth removal, many individuals experience complications. When there is not enough room for the teeth to emerge correctly, they can grow at awkward angles, leading to painful infections, cysts, or crowding damage. Partially emerging teeth can also cause issues since the area becomes challenging to clean, resulting in oral infections or gum disease.
What Symptoms Necessitate Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s best to consult a trusted oral surgeon to determine the best course of action:
- Tooth or jaw pain
- Multiple infections in the soft tissue near your molars
- Cysts or tumors
- Crowding damage to nearby teeth
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
While some oral surgeons may suggest waiting to have your wisdom teeth removed, others may recommend removing them at a younger age when the body’s natural ability to recover is stronger. In any case, always seek the advice of a dental professional before deciding to undergo any surgical procedure.
If it’s determined that your wisdom teeth need to be extracted, it’s best to have the procedure done sooner rather than later. The earlier the removal, the easier the recovery, and the sooner you can return to your regular routine.
Learn more about wisdom teeth from The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS): Wisdom Teeth Management
