Should I Get Rid Of My Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually develop in your late teens or early twenties. They are located at the back of your mouth, and most people have four wisdom teeth. However, not everyone needs to remove their wisdom teeth. It all depends on the individual's situation, and there are both pros and cons to keeping or removing them. In this article, we will discuss whether you should get rid of your wisdom teeth or not.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to develop in your mouth. They are located at the back of your mouth, behind your second molars. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have fewer or none at all. Wisdom teeth usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people may get them earlier or later.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Anthropologists believe that our ancestors needed wisdom teeth to help them chew tough, raw foods like roots, nuts, and meat. However, over time, our diet has changed, and we no longer need them. Some people have wisdom teeth that grow in normally and do not cause any problems. However, many people experience issues with their wisdom teeth, which can lead to pain, infections, and other oral health problems.
Why Should I Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several reasons why you may need to get your wisdom teeth removed. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- They are impacted: This means that your wisdom teeth are stuck under your gums or jawbone and cannot emerge properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other oral health problems.
- They are causing crowding: Wisdom teeth can push your other teeth out of alignment, causing crowding and making it harder to clean your teeth properly.
- They are causing infection: Wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to infections and inflammation.
- They are causing cysts or tumors: In rare cases, wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumors to develop in your jawbone.
Why Should I Keep My Wisdom Teeth?
If your wisdom teeth are not causing any problems, you may not need to remove them. Here are some reasons why you may want to keep your wisdom teeth:
- They can help you chew: If your wisdom teeth grow in properly, they can help you chew tough, fibrous foods like meat and vegetables.
- They may prevent shifting: If you have your wisdom teeth removed, your other teeth may shift out of alignment over time, leading to crowding and other oral health problems.
- You may not have any problems: Not everyone needs to remove their wisdom teeth. If your wisdom teeth are growing in normally and are not causing any issues, you may be able to keep them.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, your dentist or oral surgeon will perform the procedure. Here's what you can expect:
- You will receive anesthesia to numb the area around your wisdom teeth.
- Your dentist or oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gums to access your wisdom teeth.
- Your wisdom teeth will be removed. Depending on the position of your wisdom teeth, your dentist or oral surgeon may need to remove some bone or cut your wisdom teeth into smaller pieces to make them easier to remove.
- Your dentist or oral surgeon will stitch up the incision in your gums.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Recovery time after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person. Here's what you can expect:
- You may experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding for a few days after the procedure.
- Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure, including what foods to eat and how to clean your teeth.
- You may need to take time off from work or school to recover.
- Full recovery can take up to two weeks.
Conclusion
Whether or not you should get rid of your wisdom teeth depends on your individual situation. If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, you may need to have them removed. However, if they are growing in normally and not causing any issues, you may be able to keep them. Talk to your dentist or oral surgeon to determine the best course of action for your oral health.