Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often make their presence known in late teens or early twenties. While some people have enough space in their mouths for these teeth to emerge without issues, many experience complications that make removal necessary. Understanding why dentists recommend extraction can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
1. Preventing Overcrowding and Misalignment
One of the main reasons wisdom teeth are removed is to prevent overcrowding. When there isn’t enough space in your jaw, wisdom teeth can push against adjacent teeth, causing misalignment or shifting. This can compromise the results of previous orthodontic work or create new bite problems. Removing wisdom teeth before they crowd your smile helps maintain proper alignment and protects your existing teeth.
2. Reducing Risk of Infection and Decay
Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth, which can make them difficult to clean effectively. Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of infection, gum disease, and tooth decay. Removing these teeth reduces the likelihood of painful infections and protects your overall oral health.
3. Avoiding Cysts and Damage to Nearby Structures
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or other oral lesions, which may damage surrounding bone and nearby teeth. In some cases, the pressure from impacted teeth can even affect nerves, causing pain or numbness. Extracting wisdom teeth early can prevent these more serious complications and minimize the risk of long-term damage.
Timing Matters
Dentists often recommend evaluating wisdom teeth in the late teens or early twenties, even if they aren’t causing immediate problems. Early removal can be easier and involve fewer risks, as younger patients typically heal faster and experience less postoperative discomfort. Regular dental checkups and imaging help determine the optimal timing for extraction based on each individual’s oral anatomy and needs.
If you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to come out, a consultation with a dental professional can help you weigh the risks and benefits of removal versus monitoring.
About the Practice
At Timeless Smiles of Morgan Hill, patients receive comprehensive care for wisdom teeth evaluation and removal. Dr. Jenny Hong and the team combine expertise with a gentle, patient-focused approach to ensure comfort and safety during treatment. From routine assessments to surgical extraction, our practice guides patients through every step, prioritizing oral health, effective pain management, and smooth recovery for lasting results.
Call us at (408) 763-3008 or schedule your appointment online.