Should You Get All Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth that typically develop in the late teenage years or early adulthood. Not everyone has wisdom teeth, and those who do may not necessarily have all four. While some people may never experience any issues with their wisdom teeth, others may have to undergo wisdom teeth removal. So, should you get all your wisdom teeth removed?
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop in the back of your 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. Wisdom teeth are not necessary for chewing and can cause problems if they don't grow in properly.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth may need to be removed for various reasons:
- Crowding: If there isn't enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to come in, they may push your other teeth out of alignment.
- Impacted teeth: When a wisdom tooth doesn't fully emerge, it can become impacted. This means that it's stuck under your gums and can't come in properly.
- Infection: Wisdom teeth that partially emerge can create an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection.
- Cavities: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean and can be more prone to cavities than other teeth.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. Each case is unique, and your dentist or oral surgeon will determine if your wisdom teeth need to be removed. Some people may need to have their wisdom teeth removed as a preventive measure, while others may only need to have them removed if they experience problems.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is usually done by an oral surgeon or a dentist who has experience performing the procedure. You may receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the complexity of the procedure and your preference. The surgeon will make an incision in your gums and remove the tooth or teeth. You may experience some discomfort after the procedure, but your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with pain medication to manage any pain.
Conclusion
Whether or not you should get all your wisdom teeth removed depends on your individual case. If your wisdom teeth are causing problems or are at risk of causing problems, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend that they be removed. It's important to discuss the pros and cons of wisdom teeth removal with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine the best course of action for you.