Wisdom teeth extractions are something of a rite of passage for many teens and young adults. Indeed, it is a very common procedure! However, if dental work makes you nervous, or you simply want to avoid the recovery time that comes with tooth extractions, you might wonder if it is really necessary to get your wisdom teeth removed. The answer to that depends on your unique circumstances.
When Wisdom Teeth Can Stay
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. You might be able to safely keep your third molars if:
- Your wisdom teeth have fully erupted from your gumline and are properly aligned with your other teeth.
- You are able to clean your wisdom teeth thoroughly when you brush and floss.
- They are not pressing on nearby teeth or causing any pain or discomfort.
- There are no signs of infection, cysts, or damage to surrounding structures.
When Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed
In other situations, wisdom tooth extractions are necessary. Your dentist may recommend this procedure if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Pain, swelling, or signs of infection around the wisdom teeth.
- Impacted teeth, which means the teeth are trapped under the gums or in the jawbone and cannot fully erupt.
- Damage to neighboring teeth or crowding that affects the alignment of other teeth.
- Development of cysts, tumors, or other problems associated with the wisdom teeth.
- Decay or gum disease that is difficult to treat due to the position of the wisdom teeth.
Leaving problematic wisdom teeth untreated can lead to ongoing pain and discomfort. It could also necessitate more extensive and invasive dental treatments. Acting quickly to remove troublesome wisdom teeth can spare you from a lot of trouble!
Wisdom Tooth Removal as a Preventive Measure
Some patients choose to get their wisdom teeth removed even though they are not currently causing any problems. This can be a wise preventive measure for some patients, especially since removing the wisdom teeth during adolescence or early adulthood may be easier than waiting until you reach full physical maturity.
Talk to Your Dentist for Guidance
Because every mouth is unique, you should not make decisions about your wisdom teeth without professional advice. Your dentist will evaluate your wisdom teeth through exams and X-rays, and they will provide honest guidance on whether they need to be removed.
Do you have concerns about your wisdom teeth? Talk to your dentist to find out whether they should stay or go.
Meet the Practice
At Wellesley Dental Group, our highly skilled team proudly offers a broad range of services, including wisdom tooth extractions. To make the procedure as comfortable as possible, we offer sedation dentistry options. If it is time to get your wisdom teeth checked out, contact our team at 781-691-4914 to request an appointment.