When you reach your late teen years, you may notice teeth erupting at the end of your mouth. These are called third molars, also commonly known as wisdom teeth.
Wisdom teeth are among the most common reason that guarantees a trip to the dentist. Due to several possible issues, our dentist may recommend a wisdom tooth extraction. But the question arises, “Is it really necessary to remove wisdom teeth?”
The answer depends on different factors. Experts these days may recommend preserving your wisdom teeth, given that they are in a healthy form. Understanding the causes of wisdom tooth issues helps decide whether it is beneficial to remove them.
Common Issues With Wisdom Teeth
If wisdom teeth erupt properly, they may not cause any issues. Unfortunately, that’s not the case among the majority. Many people suffer from the adverse consequences of wisdom teeth, which can only be relieved by extraction.
Some common problems associated with wisdom teeth include the following:
- Impaction: Wisdom teeth are often partially or fully impacted in your jawbone. It can cause severe discomfort, radiating jaw pain, inflammation of gums, and other symptoms.
- Crowding: Even if wisdom teeth erupt completely, they may cause excessive pressure on other teeth, resulting in crowding. A common cause is small jaw size or inadequate space for wisdom teeth eruption.
- Pain: It is the most common symptom in nearly all kinds of problems associated with wisdom teeth. It may range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. Oftentimes, pain from wisdom teeth radiates to the jaw, neck, or ears.
- Gum infections: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause inflammation of the surrounding gums, causing pericoronitis. Even if it fully erupts, it may cause gum infections due to cleanliness issues.
When Is It Necessary to Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth extraction is not necessary in all cases. However, if they are causing problems or putting other teeth at risk, you will benefit from the removal of wisdom teeth.
According to the American Dental Association, factors that necessitate may necessitate wisdom teeth removal include:
- Severe pain or discomfort
- Inflammation of gums
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Cyst formation
- Damage to adjacent teeth
- Crowding of teeth
- Grossly carious wisdom tooth
- Tumors
When Is It Safe to Preserve Wisdom Teeth?
If your wisdom teeth have erupted completely in an upright position and do not threaten your other teeth, then there is no need for extraction. Many people have perfectly healthy wisdom teeth in their oral cavity. They also contribute to proper chewing and eating if they are in good shape.
Sometimes issues with healthy wisdom teeth may arise due to improper cleaning. Since they are located at the very back of the mouth, it can be tricky to clean that area. Our dentists will provide live demonstrations for cleaning and maintaining healthy wisdom teeth. Using mouthwash can also be beneficial as it can reach even deep crevices and nooks.
Final Note
If you are unsure whether to get a wisdom tooth extraction, contact our dentists for an expert opinion. Call us at (832) 924-2666 for the 8410 Fondren Road, Houston, TX, 77074 office. Or you can contact 10345 Club Creek Dr, Houston, TX 77036 by dialing (281) 558-1199.