Does this sound like you? You’re young, maybe in your early twenties snacking and watching Netflix. Suddenly you feel a dull, persistent pain in the back of your mouth. You ignore it at first, thinking it might just be something you ate. But the pain doesn’t go away. In fact, it seems to be getting worse. After a few days you decide to visit your dentist, only to find out that your wisdom teeth might be the culprits.

A Common Dilemma

If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many young adults experience issues with their wisdom teeth, leading to the common question: should they be removed? Let’s walk through the purpose and benefits of wisdom teeth removal, explore the common reasons why extraction might be necessary, and highlight the potential risks of leaving them untreated.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that typically pop up in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth were useful for our ancestors who had larger jaws and needed the extra molars for grinding tough foods like raw meat and roots. But as human diets and jaw sizes have evolved, the necessity for these additional molars has diminished.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Overcrowding

One of the primary reasons our Springfield dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal is overcrowding. Most modern human jaws are not large enough to accommodate an extra set of molars. When wisdom teeth start to emerge, they can push against the other teeth, causing misalignment and shifting. This overcrowding can lead to various dental issues, including:

Crooked teeth

Even if you’ve had orthodontic treatment like braces, emerging wisdom teeth can undo the alignment.

Bite Problems

Misalignment can affect your bite, causing discomfort and functional issues.

Damage To Adjacent Teeth

The pressure from wisdom teeth can damage neighboring teeth, leading to further dental problems.

Impacted Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not fully emerge from the gums. This can happen if there is not enough space in the mouth for them to come in properly. Impacted teeth can cause several issues, including:

Pain

Impacted wisdom teeth can be quite painful as they push against other teeth and the jawbone.

Infection

Partially erupted teeth can create a flap of gum tissue that can trap food and bacteria, leading to painful infections.

Cysts

In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts, which can damage the jawbone and nearby teeth.

Preventive Care

Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth as a preventive measure, even if they are not currently causing problems. This is because wisdom teeth can become problematic later in life when they are harder to remove and complications are more likely. Early removal can prevent:

Future Pain And Complications

It’s often easier to recover from wisdom teeth removal when you’re younger and healthier.

Gum disease

Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can contribute to gum disease.

Decay

Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them harder to clean and more susceptible to decay.

Risks of Leaving Wisdom Teeth Untreated

Infections

One of the most significant risks of leaving wisdom teeth untreated is the potential for infections. When wisdom teeth only partially emerge, they create pockets where bacteria can thrive. This can lead to pericoronitis, an infection of the soft tissue around the tooth, which is not only painful but can also spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Damage to Other Teeth

As mentioned earlier, wisdom teeth can put pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to damage. This pressure can cause resorption, a process where the tooth material is absorbed into the surrounding bone, leading to the weakening and possible loss of the adjacent teeth.

Cysts and Tumors

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts, fluid-filled sacs that can cause significant damage to the jawbone, teeth, and nerves. In rare cases, these cysts can develop into tumors, which may require more complex surgical procedures to remove.

Chronic Pain

Persistent pain in the jaw, ear, or head can be a result of untreated wisdom teeth. This pain can significantly impact your daily life, making it difficult to eat, speak, and even sleep comfortably.

The Wisdom Teeth Removal Process

If you’re considering wisdom teeth removal, here’s what you can expect:

Consultation

The first step is a consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon. They will take X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and discuss the best course of action.

The Procedure

Wisdom teeth removal is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia.

Recovery

Recovery time can vary, but most people can return to their normal activities within a few days. It’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative care instructions, which may include:

Taking Prescribed Medications

To manage pain and prevent infection.

Eating Soft Foods

Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days to avoid irritating the surgical site.

Avoiding Strenuous Activities

Rest and avoid vigorous activities that could dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

Making Informed Decisions for Your Dental Health

At Springfield Dental Group, we’re committed to providing a stress-free and simple dental experience. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Schedule an appointment with us today to find relief and ensure your teeth stay healthy and strong.