The removal of wisdom teeth seems to be a rite of passage for young adults. However, while most people take it for granted that their wisdom teeth will be removed at some point, not everyone needs to have the procedure done, and one of the most popular questions we get is: Why do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed at all?
Wisdom teeth are also known as our third set of molars, and there’s often not enough room for them to exist well inside our mouths. X-Rays help us identify whether or not a problem exists, or if one will arise in the future. Reasons for removing wisdom teeth are highly variable and impossible to predict, but often are related to the following problems:
1. Inflamed Gums: Inflamed gums around wisdom teeth are hard to clean and can lead to decay, which, if not treated, can cause periodontal disease.
2. Sinus Pain: Pressure from third molars can lead to congestion in the sinuses, which may cause minor or significant pain in patients.
3. Alignment: The presence of wisdom teeth creates pressure against the other teeth, which can result in alignment problems that negate advances from braces, crowns, or other procedures. This pressure can also cause physical damage to other teeth in your mouth.
In the end, there are many factors that play a role in whether or not we’ll have to remove wisdom teeth, including the patient’s age, the shape of the mouth, and other elements.
If you have any questions about your wisdom teeth or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.