Does Everyone Have To Take Their Wisdom Teeth Out
Introduction
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth during early adulthood, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, these teeth grow in without any problems and can be useful for chewing. However, for others, wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other complications that require them to be removed.
Why Do Some People Need To Have Their Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several reasons why a dentist or oral surgeon may recommend that someone have their wisdom teeth removed:
- The teeth are impacted, meaning they are unable to emerge fully from the gums due to a lack of space in the mouth.
- The teeth are growing at an angle, which can cause them to push against other teeth and cause pain or damage.
- The teeth are causing an infection or inflammation in the gums or surrounding teeth.
- The teeth are causing overcrowding in the mouth or shifting of other teeth.
Do All Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
No, not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. For some people, their wisdom teeth grow in normally and do not cause any problems. However, it is important to have regular dental check-ups to monitor the growth and development of wisdom teeth and to determine if they need to be removed in the future.
When Is The Best Time To Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The best time to have wisdom teeth removed is before they begin to cause problems. Many dentists recommend that patients have their wisdom teeth removed between the ages of 16 and 19, before the roots of the teeth have fully formed and the bone surrounding the teeth is less dense, making extraction easier and less painful.
What Happens During The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure?
The wisdom teeth removal procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the wisdom teeth.
- A small incision is made in the gums to access the teeth.
- The teeth are carefully loosened and removed using forceps.
- The incision is closed with stitches, which will dissolve on their own over time.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After the procedure, patients may experience some swelling, pain, and bleeding for a few days. It is important to follow the dentist's instructions for post-operative care, which may include:
- Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.
- Taking pain medication as prescribed by the dentist.
- Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or crunchy foods that may irritate the surgical site.
- Keeping the mouth clean by gently rinsing with salt water
Conclusion
While not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, it is important to have regular dental check-ups to monitor their growth and development. If your dentist recommends that your wisdom teeth be removed, it is best to have the procedure done before they begin to cause problems. By following your dentist's instructions for post-operative care, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and avoid complications.
