Wisdom tooth extractions are sometimes regarded as a rite of passage for teens and young adults. Many people may not think twice about getting this procedure! However, you might rightly wonder if wisdom tooth extractions are really necessary. Would it be okay for you to keep your third molars? Well, that really depends on the details of your unique case. This blog post provides some helpful information that might help you decide whether to move forward with treatment.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Unnecessary?
Wisdom tooth extractions are not necessary for everyone. You might not need this procedure if:
- You never developed any wisdom teeth.
- Your mouth is big enough to comfortably accommodate all of your wisdom teeth.
- Your dentist does not believe that your wisdom teeth are a threat to your oral health or your overall wellness.
It is important to acknowledge that, technically, wisdom tooth extractions are a surgical procedure. Like any other surgery, this treatment carries some minor risks. Your dentist will only recommend that you get your wisdom teeth removed if they believe the rewards of the procedure outweigh any potential downsides.
When Is Wisdom Tooth Removal Necessary?
While wisdom tooth removal is not universally necessary, it is beneficial for the majority of people. That is because most people do not have enough space in their mouths for their wisdom teeth to fully erupt. Therefore, the teeth can get stuck beneath the gumline (impacted). They can also push against nearby teeth. Oral hygiene challenges, pain, and other issues are also common.
Here are some issues that often arise as a result of wisdom teeth that were not removed in a timely manner:
- Infections
- Decay
- Bad breath
- Gum disease
- Cysts
- Bite problems
Again, you should listen to your dentist’s advice. They will monitor your wisdom teeth during routine checkups and periodically take X-rays. They will recommend wisdom tooth removal if they believe there is a danger to your oral health.
It is also worth noting that some patients choose to undergo wisdom tooth extractions as a purely precautionary measure. If you would like to do so, ask your dentist for their advice so you can make a well-informed decision about your next steps.
Wisdom tooth extractions can be successfully performed on patients of almost any age. However, most dentists recommend the procedure when patients are young because it can be more complex and have a longer recovery period for older individuals.
Are wisdom tooth extractions really necessary? In many cases, yes! You can view this procedure as a means to protect your smile from future complications and pain.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, we proudly serve patients in our community. We are able to perform comfortable wisdom tooth extractions for teens, young adults, and older patients. If you are curious about whether you need this procedure, we would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our Branford location at 203-439-6895.