Wisdom teeth removal is a common topic of concern, especially for young adults and dental patients in Spokane. If you’re wondering whether it’s necessary to remove your wisdom teeth, the answer is not always straightforward.
Here, we’ll cover the basics of wisdom teeth, signs they may need to be removed, and why regular dental checkups play an essential role.
Let’s take a look.
Key Takeaways
- Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25.
- Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but it is recommended in certain situations.
- Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of problems, such as infection, overcrowding, and damage to surrounding teeth.
- Symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth may include pain, swelling, and difficulty opening your mouth fully.
- It is important to visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and monitoring of wisdom teeth growth.
- An evaluation from a dental professional can determine if your wisdom teeth need to be removed.
- The removal process for wisdom teeth is relatively simple and can usually be done in one appointment.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While a lucky few don’t develop wisdom teeth at all, many individuals experience issues as these teeth try to erupt in a limited space at the back of the mouth.
Wisdom teeth come in later in life because of our jaws, which are still growing and changing. This can cause problems as there may not be enough room in the mouth to accommodate them, leading to pain, discomfort, and other complications.
Signs Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed
Not every wisdom tooth has to come out, but there are several signs that they may cause problems and require removal.
Here are some common signs wisdom teeth need to be removed:
- Impaction: Impacted wisdom teeth are those blocked from fully erupting due to a lack of space or obstruction by other teeth. This can lead to pain, swelling, or infection.
- Pain or Swelling: Discomfort or swelling in the back of the mouth could indicate that your wisdom teeth are putting pressure on surrounding teeth or causing gum inflammation.
- Crowding or Shifting Teeth: When there’s not enough room in your mouth, wisdom teeth may crowd your existing teeth. This could undo the results of prior orthodontic work.
- Cysts or Damage to Surrounding Teeth: Oral cysts or growths around impacted wisdom teeth can harm the jawbone or adjacent teeth. X-rays can help detect these hidden problems.
- Recurring Infection (Pericoronitis): Infection of the gum tissue around a partially erupted wisdom tooth is another common complication.
If you’ve seen any of these signs, it may be time to contact your dentist to have them looked at to check if they need to be removed or not.
Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
The simple answer is no.
If your wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, aligned properly, and not causing symptoms, your dentist may recommend keeping them.
However, because wisdom teeth are harder to clean, they are more prone to decay and gum disease. Dentists often suggest removing them early as a precautionary measure.
Why Early Removal Is Easier
If your dentist identifies signs that wisdom teeth need to come out during your teens or early 20s, it may be beneficial to act sooner rather than later.
Why?
At younger ages, the roots of the wisdom teeth are less developed, and the surrounding bone is less dense, making the extraction process quicker and the recovery easier.
The Role of X-rays in Monitoring
Many times, individuals are not aware of potential issues with their wisdom teeth until they visit the dentist. Regular checkups and X-rays are essential to tracking the growth and positioning of these teeth.
Dental x-rays can uncover impacted teeth, overcrowding, or developing issues before they become symptomatic.
What to Expect with Wisdom Tooth Removal
If removal is recommended, rest assured that modern techniques make the process more comfortable than you might think.
At 5 Mile Smiles, Dr. Jason Keefe uses advanced technology and compassionate care to ensure a positive experience. Simple extractions may only need local anesthesia, while more complex cases (such as impacted teeth) may involve sedation for greater comfort.
We offer not only wisdom teeth removal here in Spokane, but also many other dental services such as root canals, braces, and dental cleanings.
FAQ
Q: How do you know if you need your wisdom teeth removed?
A: Some common signs that may indicate the need for wisdom teeth removal include pain, swelling, difficulty fully opening your mouth, and overcrowding of your teeth.
Q: How long is the recovery process after wisdom teeth removal?
A: Recovery time can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing abilities. In general, it takes about 3-4 days to recover from a simple extraction and 7-10 days for more complex extractions. Your dentist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help speed up the healing process.
Q: Are there any risks associated with wisdom teeth removal?
A: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks involved. However, wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, and complications are rare. Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss any potential risks with you before the extraction to ensure you are fully informed.
Q: Are there any alternatives to wisdom teeth removal?
A: In certain cases, your dentist may recommend monitoring the growth of your wisdom teeth instead of removing them. This approach is typically only recommended if the wisdom teeth are not causing any issues and have enough room to come in properly without causing problems for other teeth.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy
If you are experiencing signs that wisdom teeth need to be removed, such as pain, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, or crowding of other teeth, don’t wait to seek professional care.
It’s important to stay proactive about your oral health, especially when it comes to wisdom teeth.
- Attend regular dental checkups to ensure any developing problems are detected early.
- Follow your dentist’s recommendations for X-rays or treatment plans.
- Reach out to a trusted professional if you experience any discomfort or symptoms related to your wisdom teeth.
If you’re uncertain about how to know if you need wisdom teeth removed, our experienced team at 5 Mile Smiles in Spokane can provide a comprehensive evaluation. Whether you need X-rays, advice, or removal services, we’re here to help.
Give us a call at (509) 326-2621 to schedule your consultation today. Take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!
