Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth located at the back of your mouth. They typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, wisdom teeth can pose a variety of problems that require removal. However, some individuals may choose to keep their wisdom teeth, either because they are not causing immediate issues or because they want to avoid the pain and recovery associated with removal. But, is keeping wisdom teeth always the best choice? In this article, we will explore the potential side effects of keeping wisdom teeth and provide a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of holding on to them.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Before diving into the side effects of keeping wisdom teeth, it is important to understand their role and how they can impact your dental health. Wisdom teeth are the last molars that emerge in the mouth. They were useful to our ancient ancestors who had larger jaws and ate a rougher diet, which required more chewing. As modern humans evolved, our jaws became smaller, and wisdom teeth often no longer have enough room to emerge properly.
While some individuals have enough space for their wisdom teeth to grow in normally, many people experience complications as these teeth try to emerge. When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space or are misaligned, they can lead to various oral health problems.
The Risks of Keeping Wisdom Teeth
For some people, keeping wisdom teeth may not pose any immediate problems. However, there are a number of risks associated with leaving them in place. Understanding these risks is essential for making an informed decision about whether to keep or remove your wisdom teeth.
Impaction
One of the most common side effects of keeping wisdom teeth is impaction. An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth for the tooth to emerge fully. The tooth may become trapped beneath the gum line or grow at an angle, leading to discomfort and potential damage to surrounding teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection, which often require removal.
Infection
Wisdom teeth that are partially erupted or impacted are more prone to infections. When the tooth doesn’t fully emerge, a flap of gum tissue can remain over the tooth, which may trap food particles and bacteria. This creates an ideal environment for infections, leading to swelling, pain, and sometimes fever. Infected wisdom teeth may need to be removed to prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the mouth or the body.
Damage to Surrounding Teeth
Another potential side effect of keeping wisdom teeth is damage to the surrounding teeth. If a wisdom tooth is impacted or growing at an angle, it can push against neighboring teeth, causing them to shift or become misaligned. This can lead to dental crowding and may even damage the roots of adjacent teeth. In severe cases, the pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can cause cracks or fractures in neighboring teeth.
Gum Disease and Cavities
Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth are also more difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of developing gum disease or cavities. The space between the wisdom teeth and the rest of the teeth can be hard to reach with a toothbrush or floss. As a result, bacteria can build up, leading to the formation of plaque and tartar, which can cause gum inflammation, gingivitis, and even tooth decay.
Cysts and Tumors
In some cases, cysts or tumors can form around impacted wisdom teeth. These cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can damage the jawbone, teeth, and nerves. While cysts are rare, they can cause serious problems if left untreated, leading to the need for more invasive treatments, such as surgery or bone grafts. Tumors are even rarer, but they can also develop around the impacted teeth and may require extensive surgery to remove.
Difficulty in Oral Hygiene
Keeping wisdom teeth can also make it more difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. The back of the mouth is harder to reach, and the added presence of wisdom teeth can make it challenging to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums. When oral hygiene is compromised, the risk of developing issues such as plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease increases.
The Pros of Keeping Wisdom Teeth
While there are certainly risks associated with keeping wisdom teeth, there are some potential benefits, especially for individuals whose wisdom teeth do not cause immediate issues.
No Need for Surgery
One of the biggest advantages of keeping wisdom teeth is avoiding the need for surgery. The extraction of wisdom teeth requires anesthesia and recovery time, and for some people, the procedure can be uncomfortable or complicated. If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, and do not cause any pain or issues, you may be able to avoid the inconvenience of surgery altogether.
No Risk of Surgical Complications
Although wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure, there are still risks associated with surgery, such as bleeding, infection, and nerve damage. Some individuals may experience complications during or after the procedure. By keeping your wisdom teeth, you eliminate the potential risks associated with surgery, such as post-operative pain, swelling, or even more serious issues like nerve damage or dry socket.
Long-Term Benefits if Healthy
If your wisdom teeth are healthy, properly aligned, and have enough space in your mouth, keeping them may have long-term benefits. Healthy wisdom teeth can continue to serve as additional molars, providing extra chewing power. In some cases, they can even help maintain the overall alignment of the teeth, preventing shifting or overcrowding. This is particularly true for individuals who have already had orthodontic treatment and want to avoid their teeth moving out of position.
When Should You Consider Removal?
Despite the potential benefits of keeping wisdom teeth, removal may be the best option for many people. If your wisdom teeth are causing pain, infection, or other issues, your dentist may recommend extraction. Additionally, even if your wisdom teeth are not currently causing problems, removing them early can prevent complications later on.
Age and Development
The best time to remove wisdom teeth is typically between the ages of 17 and 25, when the roots are still developing and the teeth are easier to remove. Removing wisdom teeth at an earlier age may also reduce the risk of complications and make recovery easier.
Regular Monitoring
If you choose to keep your wisdom teeth, regular monitoring by your dentist is essential. Your dentist will check the position and health of your wisdom teeth during routine exams and may recommend removal if any issues arise. Regular X-rays can help detect problems with impaction, infection, or the growth of cysts before they become more serious.
Conclusion
While keeping wisdom teeth may seem like a good option for some, it is important to consider the potential side effects and risks. Impacted wisdom teeth, infections, and damage to surrounding teeth are just a few of the complications that can arise from keeping these molars. However, if your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, and not causing any problems, it may be possible to keep them without issue. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for monitoring the health of your wisdom teeth and ensuring that they don’t lead to more serious problems in the future.
Ultimately, the decision to keep or remove your wisdom teeth is a personal one and should be made in consultation with your dentist. Your dentist will be able to assess your individual situation and provide recommendations based on your oral health needs. Whether you choose to keep your wisdom teeth or opt for removal, maintaining proper dental care and regular visits to the dentist will help you achieve the best possible outcomes for your overall oral health.
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