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The Wisdom Dilemma: Must Wisdom Teeth Always be Removed?
Busting the Wisdom Teeth Myths
Alright folks, let's get real about wisdom teeth. There's a lot of buzz and, frankly, a heap of myths floating around. It's time to set the record straight and help you figure out what's what.
What's The Deal With Wisdom Teeth?
You know those pesky molars that pop up in your late teens or early twenties? Yep, those are wisdom teeth, the third set of molars chilling at the back of your mouth. Back in the day, our ancestors needed these extra chompers to tear through tough foods like raw meat and tree bark (okay, maybe not bark, but you get the idea). Nowadays, with our softer diets and better dental care, they’re not as crucial.
Here's a quick look at how tooth development rolls out:
Age RangeWhat's Happening in Your Mouth0 - 6 yearsBaby teeth make their debut6 - 12 yearsBaby teeth take a bow, adult teeth take the stage17 - 25 yearsWisdom teeth decide to join the party (sometimes unwanted)
Common Myths About Wisdom Teeth
Let's tackle some of these tall tales:
Myth: Everyone needs to get their wisdom teeth yanked.
Nope, not everyone needs to go through that. Some folks have enough room in their jaws, and their wisdom teeth come in just fine and dandy without causing trouble.
Myth: Wisdom teeth are always a pain in the… mouth.
Sure, they can be a hassle (think impaction or crowding), but they don’t always spell doom. Regular dental check-ups can keep an eye on these molars and nip any problems in the bud.
Myth: Pulling out wisdom teeth is agony incarnate.
Modern dental practices make this process way less torturous than you might think. With anesthesia and a good dentist, the discomfort is pretty manageable. For tips on handling the pain, check out our guide on how painful is wisdom teeth removal.
Myth: Yank them out as soon as they show up.
Timing's everything, but it's not one-size-fits-all. Some might never need pulling while others scream for extraction. Curious about the best time to act? Dive into our article on when should wisdom teeth be removed.
Understanding wisdom teeth and debunking these myths can make your dental decisions a breeze. Whether you're contemplating getting them out or just want to keep them in check, personalized advice is key. Hit up your dentist for a chat and stay informed. For more savvy steps, don't miss our piece on signs you need wisdom teeth removed.
Why Get Your Wisdom Teeth Yanked?
Let's chat about why it's sometimes necessary to remove those pesky wisdom teeth and the perks of getting them out of your mouth.
When Pulling Wisdom Teeth is a Good Idea
Sometimes your dentist might say it's time for those wisdom teeth to go. Here's why:
Impaction: If your wisdom teeth decide to grow in at a funky angle or stay stuck below the gum, it's called impaction. This can really hurt, cause infections, and mess up nearby teeth.
Pain and Misery: Ongoing pain in the back of your mouth often hints at problems with wisdom teeth. Swelling and tenderness are typical issues.
Crowding: When wisdom teeth pop up late to the party, they can push your other teeth out of whack, especially risky if you've had braces.
Infection and Gum Gunk: Partially erupted wisdom teeth create little pockets that are a playground for bacteria, leading to infections like pericoronitis.
Cysts or Tumors: Rarely, cysts or tumors can form around impacted wisdom teeth, which means it's time for them to hit the road before they cause bigger problems.
Want more on the signs your wisdom teeth might be trouble? Check out our piece on symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth.
Why You Might Want to Say Goodbye to Wisdom Teeth
Kicking your wisdom teeth to the curb can do wonders for your mouth:
Nipping Future Dental Drama in the Bud: Taking wisdom teeth out before they cause trouble can save you from pain, cysts, cavities, and even bone damage down the line.
Peace Out, Pain: Getting rid of problematic wisdom teeth can stop pain dead in its tracks, letting you go about your day without wincing.
Easier Tooth Care: Fewer teeth means it's simpler to keep your mouth clean, lowering your chances of gum disease and cavities.
Straight-Up Teeth: Avoiding crowding keeps all the good work of your braces intact, especially for teens and young adults who’ve been through orthodontic treatment.
These benefits show why it's smart to tackle wisdom teeth issues early on. Curious about the best time to get them removed? Check out our advice on when is the best time to remove wisdom teeth.
So, while not everyone needs their wisdom teeth out, understanding why and when to do it can help you make smart choices for your dental health. And if you're still unsure, hit up your dentist for a chat. For more tailored wisdom teeth advice, see our guide on why wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
Thinking About Your Wisdom Teeth Options
Wondering what to do with your wisdom teeth? It's crucial to weigh your choices carefully. Let's dig into your options.
Keeping an Eye on Wisdom Teeth
One way to go is to keep tabs on those wisdom teeth. This means regular dental check-ups and X-rays to see how they're coming in. Not all wisdom teeth need to be yanked – sometimes they grow in just fine without causing any grief.
How OftenWhat to DoEvery 6 MonthsRegular dental check-up, visual exam, and maybe X-raysOnce a YearFull X-rays to check positioning and potential issuesIf Something's WrongSee your dentist right away for a check-up
Keeping an eye on them lets your dentist catch any problems early, so you might avoid more drastic measures. This is a good route if your wisdom teeth aren’t causing any trouble. Want more info on this approach? Check out our article on when it's wise to remove wisdom teeth.
Partial Yank vs. Full Yank
Another route is partial removal, or coronectomy, where just the crown is taken out, leaving the roots behind. This is usually suggested if the roots are near nerves, making it a safer bet to avoid nerve damage.
OptionWhat It MeansProsConsPartial Yank (Coronectomy)Take out the crown, leave the rootsLowers risk of nerve damageMight still have root issuesFull YankRemove the tooth and rootsNo more tooth problemsHigher risk of nerve damage and dry socket
Deciding between a partial or full yank depends on things like where the roots are and if there's a risk of nerve damage. Your dentist can help you figure this out, and you can get more details in our piece on knowing when your wisdom teeth need to come out.
Considering all your choices can help you make the best call for your health and lifestyle. Regular check-ups are key to catching any risks before they turn into big problems. For more on this, visit our guide on wisdom teeth removal options.
Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wondering if you should get those pesky wisdom teeth yanked out? Let's break down the essentials with a mix of humor, real talk, and some sure-fire tips.
Chatting with Your Dentist
First things first: book a date with your dentist or an oral surgeon. It's not just them poking around in your mouth; they'll:
Peek at your teeth using X-rays to see if those wisdom teeth have minds of their own.
Spot any nasties like impacted teeth, cysts, or infections.
Listen to your tales of dental woe - pain, swelling, or the pure agony of chewing.
This chat helps decide if those wisdom teeth are more trouble than they're worth. Plus, it's the perfect time to fire off questions about the extraction process, healing, and other options. Got doubts about when to pull the trigger? Check out our nifty guide on signs you need wisdom teeth removed.
Your Mouth, Your Rules
Once you've had your sit-down with the tooth whisperer, it's time to weigh your own needs. Each mouth tells a different story, and here's what you need to look at:
What to Look AtWhy It MattersAlignmentWonky wisdom teeth can mess up the whole gang.Decay or Gum DiseasePartly popped wisdom teeth invite trouble.Impacted TeethGet ready for pain, crowding, or infection.AgeYounger folks bounce back like rubber.
Keep up those regular dentist visits. Trust the pro’s advice, and remember, what works for one might not work for another. Sometimes, teeth need the boot ASAP; other times, they just need a watchful eye. Curious about the perfect timing? Dive deeper into when should wisdom teeth be removed.
Your Teeth, Your Call
Making the call about wisdom teeth is all about what’s best for your chompers. Listen to your dentist, stay informed, and make the choice that keeps your smile shining.
Listen to Your Body: Knowing When to Ditch the Wisdom Teeth
Understanding what your body is telling you is key when it comes to deciding if those pesky wisdom teeth gotta go. Let's break down the signs and risks so you can make the best call for your pearly whites.
When to Consider Kicking Out Those Wisdom Teeth
Recognizing when it’s time to book that dental appointment can save you a world of hurt later on. Keep an eye out for these symptoms:
Ouch!: If your mouth’s screaming in pain, especially at the back, it's time to listen up.
Puffy Gums: Swelling around the gum area is a not-so-subtle hint.
Infection Alert: Redness, tenderness, pain, and a nasty taste could mean an infection’s brewing.
Tooth Trouble: Pressure or damage to the surrounding teeth is your sign.
Cysts or Tumors: If cysts are popping up around your teeth, it’s a red flag.
Mouth Lock: Struggling to open your mouth or chew? Time to investigate.
For more deets on these symptoms, check out our in-depth guide on signs you need wisdom teeth removed.
The Lowdown on Keeping Wisdom Teeth
Deciding to keep your wisdom teeth comes with its own set of baggage. Here’s the scoop on potential risks:
Impaction Issues: Teeth might get stuck and not come out right.
Infection Woes: Stuck teeth can lead to chronic infections.
Crowded House: New teeth can push and shove your other teeth.
Cyst Chaos: Cysts might form around trapped teeth, leading to bone damage.
Jaw Pain: Ongoing pain in your jaw isn’t fun.
Gum Trouble: Hard-to-clean areas can get gum disease.
Check out this handy table for a quick overview:
ProblemChance (%)Impaction70 - 80Infection20 - 30Crowding10 - 20Cyst Formation5 - 10Persistent Pain30 - 40Gum Disease25 - 35
Knowing these risks helps you make a smarter choice about getting those teeth out. For more on the risks, head to what happens if you don’t remove impacted wisdom teeth.
Stay in Tune with Your Body
Listening to what your body’s telling you about your wisdom teeth (and checking in with your dentist regularly) can steer you towards the best decision. Want to know more about prepping for that dentist visit? Find out at when should wisdom teeth be removed.
Stay ahead of the game and keep that smile shining bright!
Making Smart Choices About Your Wisdom Teeth
Understanding your specific situation and sticking to regular dental checkups is key to smart decisions about wisdom teeth.
Doing What's Right for Your Teeth
Everyone's got a unique smile, so figuring out what to do with your wisdom teeth needs to be tailored just for you. Chatting with your dentist is a must to decide if you need those third molars fully yanked, partially removed, or just watched. Things like tooth position, age, and overall dental health play a big role here.
Dentists will likely use X-rays and other cool gadgets to see how your wisdom teeth are lining up. This helps them make a call that fits you and what risks you might be facing.
Keep Up with Regular Dentist Visits
Seeing your dentist regularly helps keep an eye on your wisdom teeth and stops problems in their tracks. Your dentist can spot early issues, like impacted teeth or infections, and decide if it's time to take action. Regular visits make sure any potential troubles get sorted out quickly.
How Often?Age GroupWhy It MattersEvery 6 monthsUnder 18Check growth and alignmentEvery 6 months18-25See if they need to come outOnce a yearOver 25Watch for late-onset problems
Going to the dentist regularly is key for making good choices about wisdom teeth and keeping your mouth in top shape. These visits also let you talk about other dental concerns, making sure you're getting full-on care.
Want to dive deeper into wisdom teeth stuff? Check out our articles on when you should consider removal and why getting them out might be necessary. By keeping up with dental visits and getting that personalized touch, you can handle your wisdom teeth like a pro, avoiding issues and keeping your smile healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are wisdom teeth, and why do they need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. They often cause problems because there is insufficient space for them to fully emerge or they may grow in an improper position. This can lead to various issues like pain, infection, tooth decay, gum disease, and damage to adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure to address these concerns.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, infection, damage to neighboring teeth, or overcrowding, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. Based on their assessment, they can recommend the need for wisdom teeth removal. If you do not have a dentist, please call us and set up a FREE consultation and x-ray to determine a plan that is right for you.
Why are the third molars referred to as wisdom teeth?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, third molars are referred to as wisdom teeth because their common age of eruption is between 17 and 25. Aristotle explained it this way 2500 years ago!
"The last teeth to come in man are molars called ‘wisdom-teeth’, which come at the age of twenty years, in the case of both sexes. Cases have been known in women upwards of eighty years old where at the very close of life the wisdom-teeth have come up, causing great pain in their coming; and cases have been known of the like phenomenon in men too. This happens, when it does happen, in the case of people where the wisdom-teeth have not come up in early years."
— Aristotle, The History of Animals.
Why do we have third molars if we just remove them?
Third molars helped our human ancestors to grind plant tissue during a time when leafy greens were a more important part of our diet. It is thought that the skulls of our ancestors had larger jaws with more room to accommodate more teeth which helped them to chew foliage more efficiently. This was important because humans lack the ability to efficiently digest cellulose, an important part of plant cell walls. Since the advent of agriculture, almost 10,000 years ago, our diets have become softer and include a larger amount of sugar and high energy foods. These diets have resulted in smaller jaws and not enough room for the wisdom teeth. So when they begin to erupt, they are often painful or crooked and do not fit properly in the mouth. Their removal becomes mandatory for a healthy mouth.
What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?
The process for wisdom teeth removal involves a surgical procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. It typically includes making an incision in the gum tissue, removing any bone that blocks access to the tooth, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces and then removing the pieces and suturing the incision. This procedure ensures the complete removal of the impacted or problematic wisdom tooth.
Does everyone have 4 wisdom teeth?
No, although 4 is the most common number (one in each corner of the mouth); some people have 1, 2 or 3 wisdom teeth and some people don’t have any at all! In rare cases people develop additional teeth in the area of the wisdom teeth call ‘para-molars’ and may have 5 or more!
Does wisdom teeth removal require anesthesia or sedation?
Wisdom teeth removal usually requires some form of anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your dentist will discuss the options with you, which may include local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth or general anesthesia to render you unconscious during the surgery. We provide an IV sedation for each patient we see. This guarantees you maximum comfort, no memory of the procedure and a faster recovery.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but it generally takes about a week to fully recover. During this time, you may experience some swelling and discomfort. Following the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, such as taking prescribed pain medications and applying ice packs, can aid in a smoother recovery process.
What are the potential risks and complications of wisdom teeth removal?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with wisdom teeth removal. These include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and temporary or permanent jaw stiffness. However, these complications are relatively rare, and your dental professional will take necessary precautions to minimize the risks.
Can I eat normally after wisdom teeth removal?
Initially, you’ll need to stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the surgery to facilitate healing. As you progress in your recovery, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet. It’s important to avoid straws and hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction sites. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines to follow.
Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow before and after the procedure?
Prior to wisdom teeth removal, your dental professional will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation. These instructions include: fasting 5-6 hours before the surgery, avoid smoking or using a straw post-surgery, take regularly prescribed medications, apply ice packs, maintain proper oral hygiene, and call us if you encounter any problems on our 24/7 after care nurse line. Adhering to these instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.
Will I experience pain during or after the removal?
The procedure itself is usually painless due to anesthesia or sedation. However, it is common to experience some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your dentist may prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain. Additionally, using home remedies such as applying ice packs and rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.
What are the alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?
In certain cases where the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, positioned correctly, and not causing any problems, they may not need to be removed. Regular monitoring and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure they do not cause complications in the future. However, if extraction is recommended, it is typically the most effective solution to prevent potential issues associated with impacted or problematic wisdom teeth.
What does it mean that a wisdom tooth is ‘impacted’?
Your dentist will classify a tooth by the degree to which it has been able to grow out of your jaw bone. If a tooth remains trapped in the bone, usually by a lack of space or close proximity to other teeth, the tooth is considered to be ‘impacted’. If your wisdom teeth are impacted and need to be removed, you will experience some degree of swelling around the lower wisdom teeth. Sometimes patient’s refer to this as the “chipmunk effect” because after surgery you look like you are packing nuts in your cheeks like a chipmunk!
When is the best time to remove the wisdom teeth?
This is always a hard question to answer, simply because we can’t see into the future. However, if an X-ray indicates that there is inadequate room for the wisdom teeth to develop then a few criteria may indicate the ideal time to remove the wisdom teeth. Your doctor will help you decide when the time is right - They are best removed before the roots have fully developed. Ideally, when root development is between 25% and 50%. Undeveloped roots increase the chances that your surgery will be successful and you will not suffer any long term negative effects.- If possible, allowing the tooth to erupt as much as possible before it gets ‘stuck’ is also favorable. The closer the tooth gets to erupting, the simpler the surgery to remove it will be.- Age is a consideration and patients in their late teens are ideal candidates for removal. However, in some instances patients as young as 10 years old or as old as 90 may require wisdom tooth removal.- Oftentimes patients will remove the wisdom teeth to prepare for braces at the request of their Orthodontist.- …And, if your wisdom teeth are hurting…this is a great time to remove them!
What could happen if I don’t remove my wisdom teeth when my doctor recommends that I do?
If you wait until your adult years to remove your wisdom teeth several things become more complicated about your surgery.- First, at some point in your late-late teens or early twenties, your lower wisdom teeth will grow root tips and finish developing. Once this happens, the risk of the root tips interfering with the nerve in your mandible raises the risk of temporary or permanent numbness in your lower lip and chin.- The older you become, generally the more dense your bone becomes. Increased bone density will increase the difficulty of removing the wisdom teeth and could cause additional swelling and healing time.- Younger patients heal faster and with less complications overall than older patients. Younger patients generally experience less dry socket, pain and swelling than older patients.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket (local alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot is lost from the hole left in the jaw after a wisdom tooth is extracted. It generally results in a dull, uncomfortable ache. It is easily treated in the office where you had your wisdom teeth removed.
What can be done to prevent a dry socket?
We see very few dry sockets in our practice! We are excited to provide you with a state of the art procedure called Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to reduce your chances of dry socket from 1 in 10 to 1 in 100! We offer this procedure at no charge to you! After placing your IV, we will draw a small amount of blood. That blood will be put into a centrifuge and spun very fast until it separates into distinct layers. One of the layers, the Platelet Rich layer contains numerous white blood cells, neutrophils and other key components of healing. This portion of your blood will be put back into the socket to stimulate bone growth and healing, reduce pain and inflammation and dramatically reduce your chance of dry socket. Dr. Hendrickson believes PRF is so beneficial that he provides this service to all of his patients at no cost. Thanks to PRF treatment we see a very small number of dry socket.
Where are you located?
We have 2 locations. Our Provo & Murray offices are located...
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
What are your hours?
We are open Monday - Friday 8:00 am -5:00 pm MST.
Surgeries are scheduled on Thursdays (Provo) and Fridays (Murray).
Provo Location:
2230 N University Pkwy #8A
Provo, Utah
84604
(801) 370-0050
Murray Location:
5888 S 900 E #101
Murray, UT
84121
(801) 370-0050
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