Should Your Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Between the ages of seventeen and twenty-five, many individuals grow a third set of molars. These molars are known as wisdom teeth. These teeth once served an important role in helping humans to eat raw meats, vegetables, and roots. Today, however, these teeth often cause more negative outcomes than positive ones. In order to prevent issues that may be caused by your wisdom teeth, you should see your dentist and have your wisdom teeth evaluated between the ages of sixteen and nineteen. At this age, the roots of your wisdom teeth are not fully embedded, which makes them easier to remove than they will be when you are older. Below, you’ll find a list of some signs that your wisdom teeth may need to be removed.

1. Overcrowding

When your wisdom teeth grow in, they may take up too much space in your mouth. As a result, they may shove your other teeth out of alignment. Wisdom teeth that push other teeth out of the way can undo the accomplishments of braces and can lead to a crooked smile.

2. Pain

Sometimes, wisdom teeth can cause pain. It is natural to feel some discomfort as these teeth push through your gums, but this pain should not persist. If it does, your dentist will help you to determine the appropriate course of action.

3. Inflamed Gums

If a flap of gum tissue forms near your wisdom teeth as they begin to grow in, you may be at risk of developing pericoronitis. This occurs as a result of the accumulation of small particles of food and bacteria within this flap of gum tissue. If you find that the tissue around your wisdom teeth has become hard and inflamed, see your dentist right away.

There are many possible reasons you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed. By meeting with your dentist regularly, you can make an informed decision regarding your wisdom teeth before they cause significant issues. On the other hand, there are plenty of individuals who simply do not need to have their wisdom teeth removed. If you are one of these individuals, your dentist can instruct you on the proper care of these hard-to-reach teeth. At The Dental Center, we will help you to determine the plan of action that is best for your unique dental needs.