Am I Allowed To Keep My Wisdom Teeth
Introduction
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars to emerge in the back of the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others experience pain, discomfort, and even infection due to their growth. Many people wonder whether they are allowed to keep their wisdom teeth or whether they must have them extracted.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that emerge in the back of the mouth. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people may have them emerge earlier or later. Most people have four wisdom teeth, although some have fewer or none at all.
Wisdom teeth are vestigial structures that served a purpose in our ancient ancestors, who had larger jaws and needed the extra teeth to chew tough, fibrous foods. Today, our jaws are smaller, and we no longer need these extra teeth.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
Many people don't have enough room in their mouths to accommodate their wisdom teeth. As a result, their wisdom teeth can become impacted, which means they don't emerge properly. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
Even if your wisdom teeth emerge properly, they can still cause problems. Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean because of their location at the back of the mouth, and they can be more prone to decay and infection.
Do You Have To Remove Your Wisdom Teeth?
The decision to remove your wisdom teeth is ultimately up to you and your dentist or oral surgeon. If your wisdom teeth are causing pain, swelling, or infection, your dentist may recommend removal.
Even if your wisdom teeth are not causing any problems, your dentist may recommend removal as a preventative measure. This is because wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean and can be more prone to decay and infection.
What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that is usually done in an outpatient setting. The procedure typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case.
Your oral surgeon will begin by administering a local anesthetic to numb the area around your wisdom teeth. If you are particularly anxious or nervous about the procedure, your oral surgeon may also offer you sedation to help you relax.
Once you are numb or sedated, your oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the wisdom tooth. They may need to remove some bone tissue to access the tooth fully. Once the tooth is visible, your oral surgeon will use specialized instruments to loosen the tooth and remove it from the socket.
Conclusion
While some people can keep their wisdom teeth without issue, others may experience pain, swelling, and infection due to their growth. If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend removal. Even if your wisdom teeth are not causing any issues, your dentist may recommend removal as a preventative measure.