Does Everyone Need To Take Out Their Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that grow at the back of the mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may have enough space in their mouth to accommodate these teeth, others may experience pain and discomfort due to their growth. This leads to the question - does everyone need to take out their wisdom teeth?
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth need to be removed:
- Crowding: If there isn't enough space for the wisdom teeth to grow, they can push against nearby teeth, causing misalignment and crowding.
- Infection: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, leading to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. This can result in infection and gum disease.
- Pain: As the wisdom teeth emerge, they can cause pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth.
- Cysts: In some cases, cysts may form around the wisdom teeth, leading to damage to the jawbone and nearby teeth.
For these reasons, many dentists recommend the removal of wisdom teeth, even if they aren't causing any immediate problems.
Do Everyone Need To Take Out Their Wisdom Teeth?
The decision to remove wisdom teeth depends on several factors:
- Age: Younger people tend to have an easier time recovering from wisdom teeth removal, so dentists may recommend removal before the teeth cause any problems.
- Position: If the wisdom teeth are growing in straight and have enough space to emerge without causing crowding or other issues, they may not need to be removed.
- Overall oral health: If a person's oral health is good and the wisdom teeth aren't causing any problems, the dentist may recommend leaving them in place.
Ultimately, the decision to remove wisdom teeth is up to the individual and their dentist. It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure before making a decision.
What To Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a common outpatient procedure that can be done under local or general anesthesia. The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum to access the tooth and remove it. Stitches may be needed to close the incision.
After the procedure, it's important to follow the dentist's instructions for recovery. This may include rest, avoiding certain foods, and taking pain medication.
Conclusion
While not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, it's important to monitor their growth and discuss the potential risks and benefits with a dentist. If removal is recommended, the procedure is generally safe and can help prevent future dental problems.
