Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in the mouth. For many people, these teeth can cause a variety of issues, leading to the need for their removal. In this article, we will explore the reasons why wisdom teeth often need to be extracted.
1. Lack of Space
One common reason for wisdom teeth removal is the lack of space in the mouth. As these teeth develop, they may not have enough room to fully emerge and align properly with the rest of the teeth. This can cause crowding and misalignment, leading to discomfort and potential damage to adjacent teeth.
In such cases, the dentist or oral surgeon may recommend the removal of the wisdom teeth to prevent further complications.
Price range for wisdom teeth removal: $75 - $400 per tooth
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Another reason for the removal of wisdom teeth is impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth are those that fail to fully erupt through the gumline, remaining partially or completely submerged in the jawbone. This can lead to pain, infections, and the formation of cysts or tumors.
The extraction of impacted wisdom teeth is often necessary to alleviate discomfort, prevent infections, and maintain oral health.
Price range for the removal of impacted wisdom teeth: $225 - $600 per tooth
3. Potential Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Wisdom teeth can also cause damage to adjacent teeth. Due to their position at the back of the mouth, they may push against the second molars, causing them to shift or become damaged. This can result in bite problems, misalignment, and the need for orthodontic treatment.
To prevent such complications, the removal of wisdom teeth may be recommended.
4. Infections
When wisdom teeth partially erupt, they can create a flap of gum tissue that provides a perfect environment for bacteria growth. This can lead to gum infections, known as pericoronitis, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty in oral hygiene maintenance.
If infections are recurrent or severe, removal of the wisdom teeth may be necessary to eliminate the source of infection.
5. Cysts and Tumors
In some cases, the development of cysts or tumors may be associated with impacted wisdom teeth. These fluid-filled sacs or benign growths can cause damage to the jawbone, nearby teeth, and nerves. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help identify such abnormalities, prompting the need for extraction.
6. Problems with Oral Hygiene
The positioning of wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth makes them difficult to reach and clean properly. This can lead to food particle accumulation, plaque buildup, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
If maintaining good oral hygiene around the wisdom teeth becomes challenging, removal may be advised.
7. Developmental Issues
During the development of wisdom teeth, complications can occur. They may grow at odd angles, horizontally, or in an opposite direction to the adjacent teeth. These developmental issues can cause a variety of problems, including pain, discomfort, and a higher risk of oral health issues.
Consultation with a dentist can determine whether extraction is necessary to mitigate these complications.
8. Relief from Chronic Pain
Wisdom teeth that are not removed may lead to chronic pain in the jaw, head, and neck area. This discomfort can be a result of the pressure and inflammation caused by the impacted or misaligned teeth. Removal of the wisdom teeth can provide relief from this persistent pain.
9. Prevention of Sinus Problems
Impacted upper wisdom teeth can push against the sinuses, causing sinus pain, pressure, and congestion. By removing these teeth, the risk of sinus problems can be reduced or eliminated.
10. Orthodontic Considerations
In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be planned or ongoing. For individuals undergoing braces or other orthodontic procedures, the presence of wisdom teeth can interfere with the desired teeth movement and alignment. As a result, their removal may be recommended to ensure the success of the orthodontic treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does wisdom teeth removal hurt?
A: The extraction process is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you do not feel pain during the procedure. However, some discomfort and swelling may occur after the extraction, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
Q: Is wisdom teeth removal necessary for everyone?
A: Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. It depends on various factors such as the size of your jaw, the alignment of your existing teeth, and the presence of any signs or symptoms of complications. A consultation with your dentist can determine if removal is necessary.
Q: How long is the recovery period after wisdom teeth extraction?
A: The recovery period varies from person to person, but it typically ranges from a few days to a week. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon can help promote faster healing.
References:
1. Mayo Clinic. "Wisdom teeth removal: What you can expect."
2. American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. "Wisdom Teeth."
3. National Health Service (NHS). "Why are wisdom teeth removed?"
