How to Know You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed and Why
Also called your third molars, wisdom teeth are the last of your pearly whites to erupt, and they usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25. Your wisdom teeth may be a natural part of your body, but it’s very common to have them removed due to overcrowding or a range of other issues. Read on to learn three reasons why people undergo wisdom teeth removal in Rockledge and how to know if yours need to be extracted.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed?
If your wisdom teeth don’t fully emerge, some dentists recommend having them removed. Many dentists also believe that it’s better to have them removed before the roots and bone are fully formed since recovery is generally faster. Even so, your wisdom teeth may not need to be removed if they are healthy, have grown in completely, are correctly positioned, or can easily be cleaned.
How to Know Your Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), your wisdom teeth may need to be removed if you experience one or more of these changes in that area of the mouth:
- Infection – When someone’s wisdom teeth are impacted and there isn’t enough space for it to completely erupt, the gum tissue can become irritated. This often leads to an infection called pericoronitis which will cause pain, swelling, and problems chewing and swallowing.
- Damage to other teeth – Since wisdom teeth are so far back in the mouth, many people have a hard time getting their toothbrush and dental floss far enough back to adequately clean the area. This leaves behind plaque and tartar, which can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease to both the third molars and the surrounding teeth. If periodontal disease isn’t treated promptly, it can lead to irreversible problems, including loose teeth, gum recession, tooth loss, and bone shrinkage.
- Tumors and cysts – A rare kind of tumor called ameloblastoma starts in the jaw, usually near the molars or wisdom teeth. It can cause pain, swelling, or changes in facial shape. Left untreated, it may also become cancerous. Additionally, tumors and cysts are more likely to grow in the tissue associated with your wisdom teeth when they’re impacted.
With 75% of the population being affected by impacted wisdom teeth, this is a common issue that can be corrected with a good dentist. So, if you have wisdom teeth that are painful, impacted, or otherwise causing issues, make sure to contact your dentist to have them removed and get your smile back on track!
About the Author
Do you have one or more wisdom teeth that are causing discomfort or making it difficult to properly clean your teeth? Dr. Sowmya Kumar and her talented Rockledge team at Premier Walk-In Dental are here to help. They are experts at removing painful, uncomfortable, or crowded teeth to help patients achieve the bright, beautiful smiles they deserve. For more information on wisdom teeth removal or to set up an appointment, visit Premier Walk-In Dental’s website or call their office at (321) 631-4334.