Do Wisdom Teeth Really Need to Come Out?

Ideally, none of your teeth would ever need to be removed. In fact, most dentists try to avoid extraction as much as possible. However, life doesn’t always work out that way, especially when it comes to wisdom teeth. It seems like most people have theirs removed, but is this procedure really necessary? Sometimes!

Historically, humans used to require these third molars between the ages of 17 and 25 because they would lose a tooth or two to injury or decay, and they had larger jawbones to accommodate extra teeth. However, today, wisdom teeth are often, but not always, superfluous and can be downright dangerous. Continue reading to learn when these teeth need to come out.

You Have Jaw Pain or Other Symptoms.

One of the most common signs that your wisdom teeth aren’t fitting in your mouth is jaw pain because the third molar presses up against other teeth. This pressure can become so strong that it shifts your teeth, which can result in soreness and jaw pain.

Other than pain, if you notice that your bite has changed, it could be the consequence of leaving your wisdom teeth. Without extraction, some of your other teeth could wear down more quickly than others, and you could bite and chew food less efficiently, which can impact your digestion and overall well-being.

Your Wisdom Teeth Are Only Partially Erupted.

When the third molars only come in a little, bits of food and plaque can easily become trapped in tiny pockets, increasing the risk of infection and decay. In addition, with a partially erupted wisdom tooth, oral bacteria would have much easier access to the bloodstream, potentially allowing these inflammation-causing bacteria to go to other parts of your body and cause problems.

Your Wisdom Teeth Are Developing at an Angle.

Sometimes, your dentist can tell your wisdom teeth will present a problem before they actually do. While in development, these third molars may appear skewed or form at an angle, which means that even if they aren’t yet pushing against your teeth, they may someday. Even if they have not yet partially erupted, there’s a high likelihood that they will at some point. In this situation, your dentist may recommend extraction to stay ahead of the problem and to help you avoid unpleasant symptoms.

During your late teen years and early 20s, your dentist will keep a close eye on your X-rays because these images can reveal developing wisdom teeth. Based on them, your dentist may say that your wisdom teeth need to come out.

In the end, you may or may not need to have your wisdom teeth extracted or at least not all of them. It all depends on your unique mouth and situation, which is why you need to work closely with your dentist so that if this procedure is necessary, you can take care of it sooner rather than later. Doing so will help protect the rest of your smile for the long term.

About the Practice

At Amherst Dental Group, we have the training and capability to perform most wisdom tooth extractions in-house. Our dentists are highly experienced, offer multiple sedation options, and only perform this procedure when absolutely necessary. As a result, you can know they have your best interests at heart and will take care of you. If you have wisdom teeth that may need to be removed, schedule an appointment with us online or call our Williamsville office at 716-689-8882.