Dentists and dental specialists perform countless wisdom teeth removal procedures each year. In fact, this treatment has become something of a rite of passage for many people in their teens and early twenties. But why is it so often necessary? If you still have your third molars, you might wonder if extracting them will really benefit you. While not everyone needs to get these teeth removed, the procedure is often necessary for one or more of the following reasons:
The Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted
If your wisdom teeth do not have enough space to erupt in the right position, they can become impacted. An impacted tooth may stay trapped fully or partially under the gums and even press against the molar next to it. This can put your oral health at risk because pressure and trapped bacteria can lead to damage, infection, misalignment, cysts, tumors, or decay. Your dentist may recommend removal before the problem affects nearby teeth or bone.
The Wisdom Teeth Are Difficult to Clean
Even if your wisdom teeth erupt partway, their position at the very back of your mouth can make daily care much harder. You may not reach them well with a toothbrush or floss, especially if gum tissue covers part of the tooth. Food and plaque can collect in that area and raise your risk of cavities, gum infections, and bad breath. If a dental infection is allowed to progress far enough, it can even cause systemic illness. It is often best to remove the wisdom teeth before they start harming your oral and overall health.
The Wisdom Teeth Are Causing Painful Symptoms
The human body often gives clear signs when wisdom teeth create trouble. You may feel pain in the back of your mouth, notice swollen gums, or have jaw pressure that makes it hard to chew comfortably. In some cases, you may also notice stiffness, tenderness, or a bad taste that points to infection. If you have any such symptoms, it would be best to see your dentist sooner rather than later. The problems are only likely to worsen with time, and the only way to permanently end wisdom tooth discomfort is by removing them.
The idea of getting your wisdom teeth removed might seem intimidating, but the process is easier than you might expect. Keep up with routine checkups so your dentist can monitor your third molars and recommend removal if/when it becomes necessary.
Meet the Practice
At Four Town Dental in Enfield, our team is proud to offer a range of advanced services, including wisdom tooth extractions. We can also provide sedation to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. If you have questions or concerns about your third molars, we invite you visit us for a consultation. Schedule an appointment by contacting us at 860-856-6928.