As a dentist, I often get asked whether wisdom teeth removal is really necessary. It’s a question that many people have, and understandably so. After all, wisdom teeth are a natural part of our anatomy, and it’s not always clear whether they need to be removed or not.
The short answer is that wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary. However, there are situations where it is the best course of action. In this article, I’ll explain when wisdom teeth removal is necessary, what the procedure entails, and what you can expect during and after the surgery.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
First, let’s start with the basics. Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in our late teens or early twenties. Most people have four wisdom teeth, although some people may have fewer or more. Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, behind the second molars.
Why are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be removed. Here are some of the most common:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
One of the most common reasons for wisdom teeth removal is because they are impacted. This means that the teeth are not able to fully emerge from the gums because they are blocked by other teeth or bone. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
Crowding
Another reason why wisdom teeth may need to be removed is because they can cause crowding. When there is not enough space in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to emerge, they can push against the other teeth and cause them to shift out of place. This can lead to bite problems and other dental issues.
Infection
Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted can be difficult to clean, which can lead to infection. In some cases, the infection can spread to the surrounding teeth and gums, causing pain and swelling.
Decay
Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, which can make them difficult to clean. This can lead to decay, which can spread to the surrounding teeth and gums.
Cysts and Tumors
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can develop cysts or tumors. These growths can cause damage to the surrounding teeth and bone, and may need to be removed.
What Does the Procedure Entail?
If your dentist or oral surgeon determines that your wisdom teeth need to be removed, they will schedule a procedure. The procedure typically takes about an hour, and is performed under local anesthesia or sedation.
During the procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gums to access the wisdom teeth. They will then remove the teeth and clean the area to ensure that there is no debris left behind. Finally, they will close the incision with stitches.
What Can You Expect During Recovery?
After the procedure, you will need to rest for a few days to allow your body to heal. You may experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. Your dentist or oral surgeon may also prescribe pain medication if necessary.
You will need to avoid solid foods for the first few days after the surgery, and stick to soft foods like soup and yogurt. You should also avoid drinking through a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket.
It’s important to keep the area clean to prevent infection. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for the area, including how to brush and floss.
When is Wisdom Teeth Removal Not Necessary?
While there are many situations where wisdom teeth removal is necessary, there are also times when it is not needed. If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, and there is enough space in your mouth for them to emerge without causing problems, then they may not need to be removed.
It’s important to have regular dental check-ups to monitor the health of your wisdom teeth. Your dentist can help you determine whether they need to be removed or not.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary, but there are situations where it is the best course of action. If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or infection due to your wisdom teeth, or if they are causing crowding or other dental issues, then it may be time to consider removal.
If you are unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, talk to your dentist. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of the procedure, and can provide you with personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.
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