Should You Let Your Wisdom Teeth Grow In
Introduction
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that grow at the back of the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people have enough space in their mouth to accommodate these teeth, while others may experience pain and discomfort due to lack of space. This raises the question: should you let your wisdom teeth grow in?
Pros of Letting Your Wisdom Teeth Grow In
There are several benefits of allowing your wisdom teeth to grow in:
1. They Serve a Purpose
Wisdom teeth were once necessary for our ancestors who had a diet that consisted of tough foods like roots, nuts, and raw meat. These teeth helped them to chew and grind their food properly. While our diet has changed over time, wisdom teeth can still serve a purpose for some people.
2. Avoids Surgery
Removing wisdom teeth requires surgery, which can be costly and painful. If your wisdom teeth are not causing any issues, it's best to let them grow in naturally and avoid surgery altogether.
3. Prevents Teeth Shifting
If your wisdom teeth are removed, the adjacent teeth may shift to fill the space. This can cause misalignment of teeth and bite problems. Allowing your wisdom teeth to grow in can prevent this from happening.
Cons of Letting Your Wisdom Teeth Grow In
Despite the benefits, there are also some drawbacks of allowing your wisdom teeth to grow in:
1. Lack of Space
Most people do not have enough space in their mouth for wisdom teeth to grow in. This can cause crowding, pain, and discomfort. In some cases, the wisdom teeth may only partially emerge, which can lead to infection and gum disease.
2. Decay and Gum Disease
Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to decay and gum disease, which can spread to other teeth and cause further oral health problems.
3. Pain and Discomfort
Even if there is enough space in your mouth for wisdom teeth to grow in, they can still cause pain and discomfort. This is because they often push against other teeth, causing pressure and inflammation.
Conclusion
Whether you should let your wisdom teeth grow in or not depends on your individual situation. If you have enough space in your mouth and your wisdom teeth are not causing any issues, there's no reason to remove them. However, if you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or other oral health problems, it's best to consult with a dentist to determine the best course of action.