Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary? Key Signs to Watch For

Wisdom teeth, also referred to as third molars, are the last set of teeth that grow in at the back of your mouth. They usually make an appearance in your late teens or early 20s, and while some people sail through their wisdom tooth eruption with no problems, others can face a host of issues. So, when exactly is wisdom teeth removal necessary? Let’s take a closer look at the signs you need to watch out for and what’s involved in the process.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?.

Back in the day, our ancestors had larger jaws and needed wisdom teeth to help chew tough, raw food. However, as humans evolved and our diets changed, our jaws became smaller, making these extra teeth unnecessary.

For many people today, wisdom teeth don’t even fully erupt, leading to complications like impaction or crowding. While some may have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may find that these latecomers can cause problems down the line.

Common Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth

There are several issues that can arise when wisdom teeth don’t come in properly, or when they push against neighboring teeth.

Impaction

Impaction occurs when wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to emerge properly. Instead of breaking through the gums, they become trapped beneath the surface. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth are often the most common reason for removal.

Infection and Swelling

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can form pockets where food particles and bacteria can get trapped. This can cause infections in the gums surrounding the tooth, causing pain, swelling, and bad breath. Infected wisdom teeth need to be addressed to avoid more serious complications.

Cavities and Tooth Decay

Since wisdom teeth are at the back of your mouth, they are harder to clean properly with regular brushing and flossing. This can cause cavities and tooth decay. When this happens, you may need to have them removed to prevent the decay from spreading to nearby teeth.

Gum Disease

If wisdom teeth aren’t cleaned properly, they can become a hotspot for bacteria, leading to gum disease. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. If untreated, gum disease can cause more severe oral health problems, including tooth loss.

Signs You May Need Wisdom Teeth Removal

If you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth should come out, there are several signs that may indicate it’s time for removal.

Pain or Discomfort

One of the most obvious signs that wisdom teeth need to be removed is pain. If you experience discomfort in the back of your mouth, especially when chewing, this could be an indicator that your wisdom teeth are causing problems. The pain might be a result of impaction, infection, or pressure on neighbouring teeth.

Swelling and Tenderness

If you notice swelling or tenderness around the gums in the back of your mouth, it’s a good idea to see your dentist. Swollen gums around wisdom teeth can be a sign of infection or that the tooth is trying to emerge but doesn’t have enough space.

Infection Symptoms

Red, swollen gums around your wisdom teeth, along with bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, are common signs of infection. If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to get checked out by your dentist. Infections in wisdom teeth can spread quickly if left untreated.

Crowding of Teeth

Sometimes, wisdom teeth can push against your other teeth as they erupt. This can cause crowding, which may lead to misalignment of your teeth. If your wisdom teeth are forcing your other teeth to shift, your dentist may recommend removal to prevent further dental problems.

Difficulty Opening the Mouth

If your wisdom teeth are coming in at an odd angle or are impacted, they may limit your ability to fully open your mouth. Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing can be a sign that wisdom teeth are causing problems and may need to be removed.

When Wisdom Teeth Removal Is Not Necessary

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. In some cases, they remain symptom-free and don’t cause any problems. If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, and positioned correctly, your dentist may recommend monitoring them instead of removing them. This is especially true if they are not causing any pain, infection, or misalignment.

Asymptomatic Wisdom Teeth

Some people’s wisdom teeth don’t cause any symptoms. If your wisdom teeth are not causing pain or discomfort and are in a good position, your dentist may suggest keeping an eye on them over the years. However, they will likely continue to monitor them to ensure they don’t cause any issues down the road.

Regular Monitoring

If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing any issues, your dentist may simply recommend regular checkups and X-rays to keep track of their development. If any problems arise in the future, you can make a plan to address them early.

Alternative Treatments

In some cases, wisdom teeth can be maintained without removal. For instance, if a wisdom tooth is partially erupted but not causing any problems, your dentist may recommend regular cleanings and monitoring to keep it from becoming infected.

What Happens During Wisdom Teeth Removal?

If your dentist determines that removal is necessary, the procedure is relatively straightforward.

Procedure Overview

The removal of wisdom teeth is usually done under local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. In some cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be used, depending on the complexity of the extraction and the patient’s preference.

The dentist or oral surgeon extracts the wisdom teeth by making small incisions in the gums, and in some cases, may need to remove some bone surrounding the tooth to ensure it is extracted properly.

Anesthesia Options

The type of anesthesia used will depend on the complexity of the extraction and your personal comfort level. Local anesthesia numbs the area, while sedation or general anesthesia ensures that you remain relaxed or asleep during the procedure.

Recovery Process

After the removal, you’ll experience some swelling and discomfort, which is common. Your dentist will provide instructions on managing pain, swelling, and aftercare, including what foods to avoid and when to return for a follow-up visit. Recovery usually takes about a week or two, and most people are able to resume their normal activities soon after.

Risks and Considerations of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom tooth extraction is a very common dental surgery. However, it does carry some risks, as with any surgery. Potential complications include:

• Dry socket: A painful condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged.
• Infection: While uncommon, infections can occur after the treatment.
• Nerve damage: In rare cases, there may be nerve damage, leading to temporary numbness or tingling.

Making the Call on Wisdom Teeth

Deciding whether or not to go through wisdom tooth removal depends on a variety of factors, including whether they are causing pain, infection, or misalignment. If you’re experiencing discomfort, swelling, or other symptoms, call your dentist to discuss your options. For many people, wisdom teeth removal is a straightforward procedure that can prevent more significant dental issues down the road, ensuring healthy teeth and gums for years to come.

Thinking about wisdom teeth removal? Contact Axiom Dental now to register as a new patient and learn how we can help with your dental needs.