The emergence of wisdom teeth can often be a painful experience, but it’s not always an indication that they need to be removed. Deciding whether or not to seek wisdom teeth extraction requires the expertise of a dental professional and x-ray imaging, as some individuals may not require removal at all.
When do Wisdom Teeth Become a Problem?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located in the back of the mouth, and they tend to cause crowding issues because the modern human jaw does not have enough space to accommodate them. This is primarily due to our softer modern diet, which results in a shorter and narrower jaw than those of early humans.
While some individuals may not require wisdom teeth extraction, many people experience complications. When there is not enough room for the teeth to emerge correctly, they can grow at awkward angles, leading to painful infections, cysts, or crowding damage. Partially emerging teeth can also be harmful because the area becomes challenging to clean, resulting in oral infections or gum disease.
What Symptoms Necessitate Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should consult a trusted oral surgeon to determine the best course of action:
- Tooth or jaw pain
- Multiple infections in the soft tissue near your molars
- Cysts or tumors
- Crowding damage to nearby teeth
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
While some oral surgeons may recommend waiting to remove wisdom teeth, others may suggest removing them at a younger age when the body’s natural ability to recover is more potent. In any case, always seek the advice of a dental professional before deciding to undergo any surgical procedure.
If it’s determined that your wisdom teeth need to be removed, it’s best to have the procedure done sooner rather than later. The earlier the removal, the easier the recovery, and the sooner you can get back to your normal routine.
Learn more about Wisdom Teeth Management from The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS)
