Wisdom tooth extractions are one of the most common oral surgeries for teens and young adults. In fact, it is almost regarded as a rite of passage. However, it is still appropriate to wonder if wisdom teeth extractions are really necessary. Would it be okay for you to keep your third set of molars? The answer depends on your unique situation. This blog post provides some information that may help you determine whether you should move forward with this procedure.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Unnecessary?
Not everyone needs to undergo wisdom tooth removal. This procedure might not be necessary for you if:
- Your wisdom teeth never developed.
- Your mouth has enough space to comfortably accommodate your wisdom teeth.
- Your dentist does not believe that your wisdom teeth are posing a threat to your oral health or overall health.
Remember that wisdom tooth extractions are a surgical procedure, which carries a small degree of risk. Your dentist should only recommend treatment if the benefits far outweigh any possible risks/downsides.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Necessary?
Even though wisdom tooth extractions are not necessary for everyone, this procedure is recommended for the majority of patients. That is because most people’s mouths are not large enough for their wisdom teeth to fully erupt from their gumline. The teeth can get stuck (impacted) in the gums or jawbone. As a result, they can lead to numerous complications, including:
- Infections
- Decay
- Bad breath
- Gum disease
- Cysts
- Bite problems
- Pain
- Oral hygiene challenges
Do You Need to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you ever start to experience pain, swelling, or other symptoms around your wisdom teeth, schedule an appointment with your dentist so they can determine if extractions are necessary.
Of course, you might need to get your wisdom teeth removed even if they are not currently causing any problems. Your dentist should monitor them at your regular checkups, and if it ever looks like they may start to cause complications in the future, it may be best to get them removed. Some patients even choose to get their wisdom teeth extracted as a purely precautionary measure.
Are wisdom tooth extractions truly necessary? For many people, the answer is yes! Talk to your dentist to find out whether this procedure can help to keep your smile healthy, strong, and pain-free.
Meet the Practice
Our team at All Dental is qualified to perform even complex wisdom tooth extractions. We welcome patients of all ages, and we do our best to make treatment as comfortable as possible. We also strive to only recommend procedures that are truly necessary. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you and your family, contact our Westborough office at 508-217-7265.