Does Everyone's Wisdom Teeth Have To Be Removed
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually grow in during a person's late teens or early twenties. While some people have no trouble with their wisdom teeth, others may experience pain, infection, and other complications. This often leads to the question: does everyone's wisdom teeth have to be removed?
Why Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed
For most people, wisdom teeth can cause problems because there is not enough room in the mouth to accommodate them. This can lead to impaction, which occurs when the tooth is unable to fully emerge from the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection. They may also lead to the formation of cysts, which can damage the jawbone and other teeth.
Even if wisdom teeth do emerge fully, they can be difficult to clean properly. This can make them more susceptible to decay and gum disease, which can affect the surrounding teeth and gums. In some cases, wisdom teeth may also cause crowding, which can lead to orthodontic problems and the need for braces.
When Wisdom Teeth Do Not Need to Be Removed
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. If the teeth have enough room to emerge fully and are not causing any problems, they may be left in place. However, regular dental checkups are important to ensure that the teeth are healthy and not causing any issues.
It is important to note that even if wisdom teeth are not causing problems now, they may do so in the future. This is why many dentists recommend that wisdom teeth be removed as a precautionary measure, especially in young adults who still have developing teeth and jaws.
The Procedure for Removing Wisdom Teeth
If your dentist recommends that your wisdom teeth be removed, you may be referred to an oral surgeon for the procedure. The surgery is usually done under local anesthesia, and you may be given sedation to help you relax.
The surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and may need to remove some bone to fully extract the tooth. Once the tooth is removed, the area will be stitched closed and gauze will be placed over the socket to help stop the bleeding.
Recovery from Wisdom Teeth Removal
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal usually takes a few days to a week. You may experience some pain and swelling, and your mouth may be sore and tender. You may also experience some bleeding and difficulty opening your mouth fully.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure. This may include taking pain medication, eating soft foods, and avoiding certain activities like smoking and drinking through a straw.
Conclusion
In summary, not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. However, if your wisdom teeth are causing problems or are at risk of causing problems in the future, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend that they be removed. If you do need to have your wisdom teeth removed, it is important to follow your dentist's instructions for aftercare to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
