Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
All the Reasons Why Wisdom Teeth Often Have to Go
Wisdom teeth. They tend to show up late, cause trouble early, and never seem to stick around quietly. They also have a reputation for stirring up problems at the worst imaginable time. Whether it’s pain, swelling, or crowding, they rarely arrive without a fuss. These third molars usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25, and for many people, they don’t have enough room to grow in properly. That’s where trouble starts, and why wisdom teeth removal has become one of the most common dental procedures for teens and young adults.
In this article, we’ll explore why dentists recommend removing them and how to know if it’s time to take action sooner rather than later.
What Are Wisdom Teeth & Why Do We Have Them?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop. They were useful for early humans who had larger jaws and tougher diets. Today, most people don’t need them, and many don’t have space for them to grow in correctly.
These molars often push against other teeth or get stuck beneath the gums. Because modern jaws are smaller, wisdom teeth can cause more harm than good. Dentists monitor their growth during routine exams and may recommend removal before they cause discomfort or crowding.
The Common Problems Wisdom Teeth Can Cause
Wisdom teeth can lead to a whole slew of dental issues. One of the most common is when the tooth doesn’t fully emerge from the gums. This is called impaction, and it can cause swelling, pain, and infection.
They may also grow at odd angles and press against nearby teeth in ways that disrupt your teeth’s alignment. In some cases, cysts or damage to the jawbone can even occur. Even if they come in straight, wisdom teeth are harder to clean, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. That’s why dentists often suggest removing them before these problems can even develop.
Signs You May Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Some signs are easy to spot. Pain in the back of your mouth, swelling around the gums, or difficulty opening your jaw could point to wisdom tooth trouble.
Other signs include headaches, bad breath, or a lingering taste that doesn’t go away. If you notice crowding or shifting teeth, your wisdom teeth might be the cause. Your dentists will use X-rays to check their position and decide if removal is the best option. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to ask your dentist about wisdom teeth removal.
Is Wisdom Teeth Removal a Surgery?
The process of extracting wisdom teeth is indeed considered an oral surgery, albeit minor. The procedure involves numbing the area and removing the tooth from the gums and jawbone.
Some extractions are simple, especially if the tooth has fully erupted. Other circumstances may need more care, especially if the tooth is impacted. The dentist or oral surgeon may use stitches to help the area heal.
Most patients go home the same day and recover within a few days. The process is safe, routine, and widely performed across dental practices.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Take?
The wisdom tooth removal procedure usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth are being removed and how complex the case is.
Recovery time varies. Most people feel better after three to five days, though healing completely may take a couple of weeks. Swelling and soreness are common during the first few days. Your dentist will recommend rest, soft foods, and a consistent oral hygiene regimen to support your body’s natural healing process. If you follow the aftercare instructions given by your dentist, your recovery will be smooth and manageable.
What Happens If You Delay Removal?
Waiting too long to address wisdom tooth complications can inevitably lead to bigger problems. It isn’t uncommon for impacted wisdom teeth to cause infections, damage nearby teeth, or even create cysts in the jaw.
Delaying removal can also make the procedure more complicated than it needs to be. As the roots grow deeper and bone density increases, extractions become harder and recovery takes longer. Early removal is often easier and less painful. If your dentist recommends taking them out, it’s best to act before your symptoms worsen or any complications arise.
How to Decide – Is Removal Right For You?
The decision to remove your wisdom teeth depends on your age, symptoms, and how the teeth are growing. If they’re infected, causing discomfort, or crowding the rest of your teeth, removing them is usually the best plan of action.
Even if they’re not causing problems now, your dentist may suggest removing them to prevent any issues later on. X-rays will help determine their position and any potential impact. If you’re unsure, ask your dentist to walk you through the pros and cons based on your specific situation.
Aftercare & Tips for Smooth Healing
Recovery starts with rest. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes for the first few days. You should also avoid straws, smoking, and hard chewing to protect the healing site.
Use a cold compress to reduce any swelling and take your prescribed medications as directed. Brush gently around the area and rinse with salt water to keep it clean. Most patients return to normal activities within a week. Your follow-up visits will help monitor your healing and catch any potential issues early.
So, Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth often cause more trouble than they’re worth. They can lead to long-term dental problems if left untreated. That’s why dentists recommend early removal for many patients.
At Walnut Creek Dental in Millersburg, OH, our team offers expert care and individualized guidance for wisdom teeth removal. We’ll make the entire process smooth, safe, and stress-free. If you’re experiencing symptoms or want to know if removal is right for you, we’re here to provide the dental care you deserve.
If your wisdom teeth are starting to erupt and are causing you pain, take the first step toward relief and a healthier smile by scheduling your consultation today.
Answering Your Questions About Wisdom Teeth
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Because wisdom teeth often cause pain, crowding, or infection, it’s best to have your dentist remove them. Removal helps prevent long-term dental issues and protects surrounding teeth.
Is Wisdom Teeth Removal a Surgery?
Yes. The process of extracting your wisdom teeth is considered a minor oral surgery that involves administering a local anesthesia and removing the teeth from the gums and jawbone.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Take?
Most wisdom tooth removal procedures take under an hour. Recovery usually lasts three to five days, with full healing in a couple of weeks.
What Are the Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, bad breath, or shifting teeth are common indicators that your wisdom teeth need to be removed. X-rays will help confirm if extraction is needed.
Can I Wait to Remove My Wisdom Teeth?
Delaying the removal of your wisdom teeth can lead to infections, damage, or more complex surgery in the future. Early removal is often easier and much safer.