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What Is Wisdom Teeth and Should I Remove Them
What Is Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the final set of teeth to emerge in your mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people experience no issues, others may develop complications such as pain, infection, or crowding due to limited space in the jaw.
In this article, we’ll explore what wisdom teeth are, who gets them, common issues they cause, and how to know when removal is the right choice.
Does Everybody Have Wisdom Teeth
The short answer is no – not everyone has wisdom teeth. While the majority of adults develop wisdom teeth, there is a significant portion of the population that either never develops them or only develops one or two. Many adults have their wisdom teeth missing entirely.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed
No, removal isn’t always necessary. If your wisdom teeth are:
- Healthy
- Fully erupted
- Positioned correctly
- Easy to clean
…then your dentist may recommend leaving them in place.
Routine check-ups and X-rays help monitor their condition over time. Extraction is typically only advised when the wisdom teeth cause or are likely to cause problems.
When Should You Remove Wisdom Teeth
Your dentist may recommend wisdom tooth removal if you experience:
-
Impaction
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they don’t have enough room to come in properly and are stuck below the gum line or bone, they can cause pain, infection, and other problems. -
Crowding
Wisdom teeth can crowd your other teeth, which can lead to misalignment and difficulty cleaning your teeth. -
Damage to other teeth
In some cases, wisdom teeth can damage your other teeth by pushing on them. -
Oral disease
Wisdom teeth are positioned at the back of the mouth, making them challenging to clean properly. This can lead to the accumulation of food particles, plaque, and bacteria, increasing the likelihood of oral disease. -
Sinus problems
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can contribute to sinus problems.
If you are experiencing any of these problems mentioned above, your dentist will likely recommend that you have your wisdom teeth removed.
Age For Wisdom Teeth Removal
The ideal age for wisdom teeth removal typically falls between 16 and 25 years old. During this period, the roots haven’t fully formed, making extraction less complex and leading to a smoother recovery. The lower risk of damaging nearby nerves or tissues is attributed to the wisdom teeth not being firmly anchored in the jawbone.
While the age range provides general guidance, there’s no strict cut-off age for wisdom teeth removal. You can still have them addressed by an oral surgeon later in life if they become problematic.
In summary, wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed, but they should be monitored carefully. Early detection of potential issues can save you from pain, infection, or damage to other teeth.
Not sure if you need to remove your wisdom teeth? Book a consultation with DCA Dental Clinic today. We’ll assess your oral health and guide you on the best next steps, whether that’s removal or simply keeping a close eye on things.
FAQ: Common Questions About Wisdom Teeth
What are wisdom teeth?
›
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25.
Why do we have wisdom teeth?
›
They were useful for our ancestors to chew coarse, tough food, but today they are often unnecessary.
When do wisdom teeth usually grow?
›
Most people get their wisdom teeth between the ages of 17 and 25, though timing can vary.
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
›
No, removal is only necessary if they cause pain, crowding, or other dental issues.
What are the signs that my wisdom teeth are coming in?
›
You may experience gum tenderness, jaw discomfort, swelling, or notice your teeth breaking through.
Are wisdom teeth painful?
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Wisdom teeth can cause pain if they’re growing at an angle, trapped under the gums, or crowding other teeth. Some people feel mild discomfort, while others experience swelling, jaw pain, or headaches.
