Every year, countless teenagers and young adults undergo wisdom tooth removal. Even many older individuals get their wisdom teeth extracted. If you still have your third molars, you might have a big question weighing on your mind: Do you really need to get them removed, or is it okay for you to keep them? The answer to that depends on your circumstances. This blog post explains what you should know.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Unnecessary?
It is important to note that not everyone needs to get their wisdom teeth removed. That might be true of you if:
- You never developed any wisdom teeth.
- Your mouth is large enough to comfortably accommodate all your wisdom teeth.
- Your dentist does not anticipate that your wisdom teeth will endanger your oral health.
Wisdom teeth extractions are a surgery, which, although it is usually complication-free, does carry some very minor risks. If your dentist does not believe that its rewards would outweigh the potential downsides, there is no need to be overly concerned about getting your wisdom teeth removed.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Necessary?
Most people do need to get their wisdom teeth removed. That is because most people’s mouths are not large enough for their wisdom teeth. As they try to erupt, they can push against nearby teeth. They may also pose challenges for oral hygiene and cause pain.
Some potential complications of not removing your wisdom teeth in a timely manner include:
- Infections
- Decay
- Bad breath
- Gum disease
- Cysts
- Bite problems
Again, it is best to listen to your dentist’s advice. They will monitor your wisdom teeth at your routine checkups. With the help of visual exams and periodic X-rays, it is possible to watch the development of the wisdom teeth and determine how they might affect the nearby teeth and other oral tissues. If problems start to develop, it may be time to get them removed.
Some patients choose to undergo wisdom tooth removal as a purely precautionary measure. If you are interested in doing so, talk to your dentist about your idea so they can provide personal advice based on your unique circumstances.
Also, remember that even though wisdom tooth removal can be performed on patients of any age, younger people often have an easier treatment experience and a slightly faster recovery.
Wisdom tooth extractions are not always necessary, but they usually are! You can view this procedure as a smart measure to protect your smile and spare yourself from future pain.
Meet the Practice
The team at Comprehensive Dental Associates of Central Connecticut is proud to offer wisdom tooth extractions and many other services in our comfortable, modern office. We even offer sedation to make the experience as easy as possible. If you believe you need to get your third molars removed, we are ready to consult with you. Contact our East Hartford office at 860-288-5786.