Unsure About Removing Your Wisdom Teeth? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re on the fence about whether or not to remove your wisdom teeth, it’s time to consider the benefits of doing so. Visiting a dental clinic and speaking with a professional can help you make an informed decision.
It’s no secret that many people need their wisdom teeth removed. This is because our ancestors required more teeth for their diet, which has evolved over time. As a result, our jaws have become smaller, leaving less room for these teeth to emerge.
If you’re still not convinced about removing your wisdom teeth, it’s important to understand the potential risks. Delaying the procedure can lead to a host of dental problems, such as overcrowding, impaction, and infection.
However, there are some cases where it may be preferable to keep your wisdom teeth. Your dentist will be able to assess your unique situation and determine whether or not removal is necessary. For instance, if your wisdom teeth have already emerged and are properly aligned, they may not need to be extracted.
Ultimately, the decision to remove your wisdom teeth should be made in consultation with your dentist. By taking the time to fully understand the procedure and its benefits, you can make an informed choice that will lead to better oral health in the long run.
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1. They can skew neighboring teeth, even the front ones
Wisdom teeth are typically large teeth that gradually work their way to the surface, often impacting the surrounding teeth and even the front teeth. In some cases, removing wisdom teeth is necessary for orthodontic treatment, particularly when a patient has crowding, which is characterized by overlapping teeth.
In order to achieve proper alignment, multiple teeth may need to be removed during orthodontic treatment, including wisdom teeth. Crowding can be particularly problematic, causing teeth to mount on top of each other and leading to discomfort, difficulty cleaning teeth, and an increased risk of dental issues such as decay and gum disease.
While wisdom teeth removal can seem daunting, it is a common and safe procedure that can prevent these complications from arising. Your dentist or orthodontist can provide further guidance on whether wisdom teeth removal is necessary for your individual situation.
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2. Not removing your wisdom teeth cause discomfort such as Pericoronitis
Wisdom teeth can be a hidden foe, as they often lead to the painful condition known as pericoronitis. This inflammation is a common cause of toothache, often resulting from nerve pain.
When a wisdom tooth begins to emerge but is only partially visible, a pocket forms where food and debris can accumulate. This trapped material can lead to the formation of bacterial plaque, which is difficult to remove with typical oral hygiene practices like brushing, rinsing, or flossing. The resulting buildup of bacteria and debris can cause pericoronitis, a painful inflammation that can be difficult to manage without professional treatment.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pericoronitis, such as pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible. Your dentist can help alleviate the discomfort and prevent further complications associated with this condition. Additionally, regular dental checkups can help identify potential issues with wisdom teeth before they lead to more serious problems.
If you’re experiencing the early stages of pericoronitis, seeking prompt treatment from a dentist is crucial. A specialized rinse can help reduce inflammation and provide relief while the wisdom tooth is being removed permanently. In more advanced cases of infection, antibiotics may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to sensitive areas such as the neck or face.
If you’re dealing with a mild case of pericoronitis, there are steps you can take at home to help alleviate discomfort. One effective method is to use a syringe without the needle, filled with a small amount of mouthwash or distilled water, to gently flush the affected area. While this may cause some initial discomfort, the end result will likely be a significant reduction in pain and inflammation.
However, it’s important to note that self-treatment should never be considered a substitute for professional dental care. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of pericoronitis, it’s best to seek the advice of a dental professional to ensure that you receive appropriate treatment and prevent any further complications.
3. After a certain age it becomes more complex, and even inadvisable.
Delaying the removal of wisdom teeth is not a wise decision. It is crucial to have them removed as soon as possible once they are fully formed and visible on an X-ray, usually between the ages of 17 and 21. If left unremoved, the lack of space in the mouth can cause various problems such as crowding, misalignment, and infections.
The longer you wait to have them removed, the harder and more dense the bone becomes around the teeth. This makes the extraction procedure more difficult and the recovery time may be longer. That’s why it’s always recommended to remove them before the age of 26, but if it’s not possible, it can be done until the age of 30.
It’s essential to have a panoramic radiograph taken to evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and decide whether or not to remove them. In some cases, the teeth may not cause any issues, and it may be better to keep them under special supervision. However, it’s important not to wait too long, as it can cause problems and make the extraction more complicated.
4. They can cause decay to neighboring teeth
Due to the typical misalignment of wisdom teeth, it can be quite challenging to maintain proper oral hygiene in the back of the mouth. This area is a prime location for the accumulation of plaque and bacteria, which can lead to the development of cavities in the adjacent teeth. Even dental professionals often have difficulty cleaning this area thoroughly, which highlights the importance of removing wisdom teeth to prevent future oral health issues. By opting for extraction, you can avoid potential complications and ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy and free from decay.
5. Due to the complexity of cleaning, they may suffer more recurrent cavities
It’s common for wisdom teeth to erupt at an angle towards the cheek rather than towards the neighboring tooth. This can make it difficult to clean with a toothbrush, which in turn creates a conducive environment for plaque buildup. Consequently, not only the adjacent teeth but also the wisdom teeth can develop cavities. Removing such cavities is challenging as it is tricky to access and visualize the area properly. To prevent the pain and complications of cavities, it is better to remove wisdom teeth that are in this position in a timely manner.
6. They can cause lacerations to the cheeks at the time of brushing
Not only does the brush cause lacerations when attempting to clean the hard-to-reach area where wisdom teeth are located, but patients may also accidentally bite their cheeks while chewing, leading to a cycle of pain, inflammation, and discomfort that can be quite unpleasant.
7. They can cause infections that can even be life-threatening.
Failing to remove wisdom teeth on time can have serious consequences, with potentially life-threatening implications. These teeth are situated in a vulnerable region of the mouth, in close proximity to critical organs necessary for survival. If an infection spreads to this area, it can become so severe that it obstructs the airway, posing a significant risk to the patient’s health and well-being.
How is it possible for such a serious issue to occur in modern times, given the advances we have made in medicine?
There are various factors that contribute to this problem. Firstly, many people have a fear of going to the dentist, which prevents them from getting regular check-ups and early treatment to prevent infections from becoming severe. Secondly, the mouth is a highly contaminated area, containing a large number of microorganisms that can easily enter and cause infections. Finally, it is important to note that the wisdom teeth are located in a delicate area of the mouth, making infections in this region potentially life-threatening. Despite medical advancements, these factors can still contribute to the development of serious dental problems.
Antibiotic resistance has become a major concern due to the overuse and misuse of these medications. This has resulted in bacteria becoming more resistant, making infections much harder to treat. Additionally, certain health conditions like autoimmune diseases or diabetes can weaken the body’s immune system, leaving it vulnerable to infections.
Given these factors, it is crucial to prioritize oral health and address issues like wisdom teeth before they become serious infections. While it may be scary to undergo a procedure like wisdom teeth extraction, the benefits of doing so outweigh the risks. By taking action early, you can avoid complications down the line and protect your overall health. So, if you suspect you may have issues with your wisdom teeth, it’s best to consult a dentist and discuss your options. Don’t let fear prevent you from taking care of your oral health and well-being.