Understanding the Need for Wisdom Teeth Removal: Is It Right for You?

Having your wisdom teeth removed is very common. The majority of people find that their wisdom teeth do not come in properly due to lack of space in their mouth. And due to the timing of wisdom teeth development, having them extracted is almost considered to be a rite of passage as teenagers move into adulthood. 

But do wisdom teeth have to be removed? Can they stay where they are as long as they don’t cause any problems? These are questions for your dentist or oral surgeon to answer. Here’s what you need to know about wisdom teeth extraction. 

What Are Wisdom Teeth? 

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop in your mouth. They typically form or emerge between the ages of 17 and 25 at the back of your jaw right behind your 12 year molars. The wisdom teeth often show up in dental X-rays before they erupt through the gums, allowing your dentist to monitor their growth and identify potential concerns that would indicate the need for extraction. 

Common Problems With Wisdom Teeth 

Wisdom teeth are the largest molars. Early humans once needed them for survival, in order to chew uncooked and unprocessed food, as well as non-food debris that would end up in their food. But as people have evolved, we no longer need wisdom teeth, and as a result our jaws no longer grow large enough to accommodate them. The most common problems with wisdom teeth include: 

• Misalignment. When there is not enough room in the jaw for the wisdom teeth they will often come in crooked or sideways. 
• Failure to erupt. In some cases there isn’t enough room for the wisdom teeth to come in at all. They get stuck in the jaw bone or under the gums, which are referred to as impacted wisdom teeth. 

When wisdom teeth don’t come in properly, the best option is to have them removed. This can prevent a variety of oral health problems. 

When To Have Wisdom Teeth Removed 

If you don’t have enough room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth to come in properly, your dentist will most often recommend extraction. This is to address or prevent the following problems: 

• Infection. An impacted wisdom tooth can become inflamed, and that can lead to infection. 
• Damage to your jaw. Wisdom teeth that are too big for the jaw can damage the bone tissue and structure. 
• Damage to your other teeth. Crowded wisdom teeth will push against the other teeth causing damage to the tooth structure as well as the roots. 
• Discomfort. Impacted or crowded wisdom teeth can cause pain in the jaw and face, as well as headaches. 
• Misaligned teeth. When wisdom teeth push against the other teeth, they are shifted forward and may become crowded together. 

The preferred option is to have your wisdom teeth removed before problems begin, preventing irreversible damage to your teeth and jaw. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth 

When is the best time to have wisdom teeth removed? 

It is usually best to have your wisdom teeth removed between the ages of 17 and 25. A convenient time for teens is usually during the summer when they are out of school. It is common to have wisdom teeth removed between high school and college. 

How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal? 

You can expect to need a few days to recover from wisdom teeth removal, but each situation is different. More invasive extraction procedures, such as to remove impacted teeth, may require a longer recovery period. 

Need Wisdom Teeth Removed? 

If you or your child need wisdom teeth removal, schedule a consultation with Davis Oral Surgery and Implant Center. We can determine if you need to have your wisdom teeth removed and the best time to do it. 

Call 530-297-7000 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.