Whether you are an adult, parent, or adolescent, you have undoubtedly heard someone discuss having wisdom teeth extracted.

If you haven’t had your wisdom teeth out yet, you’re undoubtedly wondering:

Should I get my wisdom teeth extracted?

Extracting a wisdom teeth is not necessary for everyone. This article will outline the exact reasons why a wisdom tooth may need to be extracted.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth acquire their name from the fact that they often erupt in later life, typically between the ages of 17 and 21.

The very rear of your mouth contains these teeth. Though this isn’t always the case, you may anticipate having two on top and two on the bottom.

Your set of 32 adult teeth is completed by wisdom teeth, which are molars. Because they are used to crush food, these molars are the hardest of all and are also the most troublesome.

Why should I get my wisdom teeth extracted?

Your dentist may recommend that you have your wisdom teeth extracted for the following four primary reasons:

1. Your wisdom teeth cannot erupt normally because they are impacted, which can be quite painful. Rather than being erect, they typically lay horizontally and stay below the gum line.
2. They enter at the incorrect angle: If wisdom teeth do not erupt straight and erect, they may press on and harm the teeth around them.
3. Your mouth is too tiny: Some people’s jaws are too small to accommodate an additional set of molars.
4. Oral health cannot be maintained at its best: If your toothbrush and floss cannot reach your wisdom teeth, you will be more vulnerable to cavities and gum disease

Typical issues with wisdom teeth

In the US, more than 10 million wisdom teeth are extracted annually.

Be on the lookout for these typical issues related to a wisdom tooth:

• They may result in discomfort and issues with your bite: If your molars do not erupt properly, they may press on your other teeth, resulting in discomfort in your mouth and issues with your bite.
• Damage to the jaw: Unsuitable wisdom teeth may develop cysts. They can damage nerves, roots, and bones if treatment is not received. You may need surgery if a cyst develops into a tumor.
• Sinus discomfort: Your upper jaw’s wisdom teeth may press against your sinuses, causing pressure, pain, headaches, and congestion.
• Gum disease and cavities: Cleaning inflamed gums can be challenging. Gum disease and cavities can result from bacteria growing in the spaces between teeth and gums.

When is the right time to get your wisdom teeth extracted?

The sooner, the better.

As you age, your bones get tougher, which may make removal and recuperation more challenging.

Using x-rays, your dentist will ascertain:

• You might not even be aware that your wisdom teeth are concealed.
• If wisdom teeth extraction is necessary
• The number of wisdom teeth that must be extracted
• When to get your wisdom teeth out

Is it necessary to get your wisdom teeth extracted?

Just because you have wisdom teeth doesn’t mean you have to get them out.

Make an appointment with your dentist right now, or discuss it during your upcoming six-month cleaning.