I Didn't Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed
Introduction
When I was in my early twenties, I was told by my dentist that I needed to have my wisdom teeth removed. However, I was hesitant to undergo the procedure, partly because of the cost, but also because I was nervous about the potential pain and discomfort. As the years went on, I continued to put off the procedure, and eventually, I found myself in my thirties with all four of my wisdom teeth still intact.
The Debate over Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, with millions of people undergoing the surgery every year. The wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties, and for many people, they can cause problems such as crowding, impaction, and infection. Because of this, many dentists recommend that wisdom teeth be removed before they cause any issues.
However, there is also a growing debate among dental professionals about whether wisdom teeth removal is always necessary. Some argue that if the teeth are not causing any problems or are not likely to cause problems in the future, there is no need to remove them. Others point out that the surgery can be costly, and that there are risks associated with any surgical procedure.
My Experience
As I mentioned earlier, I chose not to have my wisdom teeth removed when I was younger. Partly, this was due to financial concerns - I didn't have dental insurance at the time, and the cost of the surgery was prohibitive for me. But I was also nervous about the procedure itself. I had heard horror stories from friends and family members who had undergone the surgery, and I was worried about the potential pain and discomfort.
Over the years, I continued to see my dentist regularly, and I always mentioned my wisdom teeth during my appointments. My dentist would check to see if they were causing any problems, but for the most part, they seemed to be fine. They had grown in straight, and there was no sign of impaction or infection.
The Pros and Cons
There are certainly pros and cons to not having your wisdom teeth removed. On the one hand, you avoid the pain and discomfort associated with the surgery, as well as the potential risks of any surgical procedure. You also save money, as wisdom teeth removal can be expensive.
On the other hand, there is a chance that your wisdom teeth could cause problems down the line. Even if they are not causing any issues now, they could become impacted or infected in the future. And if that happens, you may end up needing emergency surgery, which could be even more expensive and painful than having the teeth removed preemptively.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have your wisdom teeth removed is a personal one. It's important to talk to your dentist about your individual situation, and to weigh the potential risks and benefits of the surgery. For me, the decision not to have my wisdom teeth removed has worked out okay so far - but I know that I am taking a risk, and that I may need to have the surgery at some point in the future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, but it's not always necessary. Whether or not to have the surgery is a decision that should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as cost, potential risks, and individual dental health. For those who choose not to have their wisdom teeth removed, it's important to continue to see a dentist regularly and to monitor the teeth for any signs of problems.
