Does Everyone Need To Get Their Wisdom Teeth Out
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that develop in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth can cause dental problems and may need to be removed. However, not everyone needs to get their wisdom teeth out. In this article, we will explore the reasons why some people need to have their wisdom teeth extracted and why others may not.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that are located at the back of the mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have fewer or none at all. These teeth can cause dental problems, such as crowding, impaction, infection, and decay.
Do You Need to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Out?
Whether or not you need to get your wisdom teeth out depends on several factors, such as the position, size, and health of your teeth. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your teeth and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, your wisdom teeth may need to be extracted to prevent dental problems.
Reasons to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Out
There are several reasons why you may need to get your wisdom teeth out, such as:
- Crowding: Your mouth may not have enough room to accommodate your wisdom teeth, which can cause your teeth to shift and become misaligned.
- Impaction: Your wisdom teeth may not erupt properly and become impacted, which can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
- Infection: Your wisdom teeth may be more prone to infection due to their location and difficulty in cleaning.
- Decay: Your wisdom teeth may be more susceptible to decay due to their position and difficulty in brushing and flossing.
Reasons Not to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Out
Some people may not need to get their wisdom teeth out if their teeth are healthy, properly aligned, and not causing any dental problems. In some cases, keeping your wisdom teeth may actually be beneficial, such as:
- Chewing: Your wisdom teeth can help you chew tough and fibrous foods.
- Support: Your wisdom teeth can provide support to your jawbone and prevent bone loss.
- Insurance: Keeping your wisdom teeth can be a form of dental insurance in case you lose other molars due to decay or injury.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Extraction
If your dentist or oral surgeon recommends getting your wisdom teeth out, you may wonder what to expect during the procedure. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental surgery that is usually done under local or general anesthesia. The procedure involves removing the teeth from the sockets in the jawbone and stitching up the gums. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding after the procedure, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, not everyone needs to get their wisdom teeth out. Whether or not you need to have your wisdom teeth extracted depends on several factors, such as the position, size, and health of your teeth. Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your teeth and recommend the best course of action. If you do need to get your wisdom teeth out, the procedure is usually safe and effective, and you can expect to recover within a few days.
