Why should wisdom teeth be removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth that appear on each side of the upper and lower jaws during adulthood (between the ages of 17 and 25). However, not everyone has enough space in their mouth to accommodate these teeth, leading to various health issues. So, why should wisdom teeth be removed? Let’s explore the reasons in the following article.

• 1. Lack of Space for Proper Growth
• 2. Risk of Infection
• 3. Pain and Discomfort
• 4. Risk of Shifting Other Teeth
• 5. Reducing the Risk of Cysts or Other Complications
• 6. Maintaining Long-term Oral Health
• Conclusion

1. Lack of Space for Proper Growth

In many cases, the adult jaw does not have enough space for wisdom teeth to grow in the correct position. This can lead to misalignment, impacted, or sideways growth of the wisdom teeth. In such cases, the wisdom tooth may push against adjacent teeth or fail to fully emerge, causing pain and discomfort. Removing wisdom teeth in these situations is necessary to prevent more serious issues in the future.

2. Risk of Infection

When wisdom teeth grow at an angle or cannot fully erupt, it can lead to gum inflammation, pain, and swelling. If the tooth emerges partially, food and bacteria may accumulate in the area, increasing the risk of infection. Additionally, the inability to properly clean the area around the wisdom teeth allows bacteria to thrive, potentially leading to gum disease and other oral infections.

3. Pain and Discomfort

When wisdom teeth grow incorrectly, patients may experience pain and discomfort throughout the eruption process. The pain can radiate throughout the lower jaw or persist for several days, even until the tooth is removed. Getting the wisdom tooth removed will provide complete relief from this issue.

4. Risk of Shifting Other Teeth

If wisdom teeth are not removed in time, they can put pressure on adjacent teeth, causing them to shift or misalign. This not only affects the appearance of your smile but also impacts chewing function and comfort.

5. Reducing the Risk of Cysts or Other Complications

In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or growths around the roots. These cysts can damage bone and soft tissue near the tooth. Removing wisdom teeth early helps prevent the formation of such growths or other serious complications.

6. Maintaining Long-term Oral Health

Wisdom teeth are not essential for chewing and rarely contribute to the overall function of the mouth. Therefore, removing wisdom teeth is a good way to maintain a healthy mouth and prevent long-term dental problems.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth extraction is an important decision to avoid issues such as infection, pain, or shifting teeth. If you're experiencing any problems with your wisdom teeth, it's crucial to consult a dentist for advice and timely treatment.

We hope this article helps you understand why wisdom teeth should be removed and aids you in making the right decision for your oral health.