While removing wisdom teeth has become a rite of passage for young adults (WebMD), many remain reluctant about having theirs removed, especially when they are not experiencing pain. What dentists want patients to understand, however, is that removing wisdom teeth is an important preventative measure in a majority of cases. Dentists also explain that it’s important not to rely on pain as an indication to remove them. In other words, wisdom teeth might be impacted or beginning to erupt at an angle without the patient knowing it. Even so, is it wise to remove wisdom teeth?
For the most part, when dentists suspect that wisdom teeth are going to cause problems down the road for a patient, they suggest removing them. Is this a hasty decision? Given the following reasons, many say no.
- Wisdom teeth can cause damage to adjacent teeth. As they break through gum tissues, teeth tend to shift and move up against other teeth. While this can cause pain, it can also create problems with tooth alignment and the individual’s bite.
- Wisdom teeth may result in damage to one’s jaw. Surprising to some, cysts can form around the newly emerging teeth. If not treated quickly, the cysts may hollow out the jaw and damage nerves.
- Wisdom teeth may cause problems with sinuses. When wisdom teeth begin to emerge, they can elicit pain, pressure and congestion related to sinuses.
- Wisdom teeth cause irritation and swelling in gum tissues. While inflammation of the gums can be painful, it also makes this area more difficult to clean. Thus, individuals are more at risk for cavities, as well as gum disease.
Given the above-mentioned concerns relating to wisdom teeth, it’s easy to understand why dentists opt to remove them before they become a problem. What’s more is that wisdom teeth removal becomes more difficult as individuals age.
Expert Wisdom Teeth Removal
Dr. Leia Porcaro at Grateful Dental proudly serves residents of Marietta, East Cobb and surrounding areas with expert wisdom teeth removal. If you’ve been told that you need your wisdom teeth removed, and you are still on the fence, call Grateful Dental today. With care and compassion, Dr. Porcaro and her team of dental support professionals are happy to meet with you to discuss your options.
