When you go to the dentist for your cleaning and exam, they let you know that wisdom teeth removal is necessary. You wonder if the procedure is needed since they aren’t causing you pain at the time.
However, no pain means no problem is not necessarily a legitimate notion where wisdom teeth are concerned. Keep reading to learn from your dentist in Newton about what wisdom teeth are, why their removal is necessary, and signs that yours may need to be taken out ASAP.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located in the very back of our mouths. Long ago, they were vital for our ancestors, as they survived on raw meat, nuts, roots, berries, and leaves. Since they couldn’t use knives to cut and prepare food, chewing tough and coarse foods required a larger jaw and strong molars. But over time, our jawline became less broad and smaller due to how food is prepared and consumed, making wisdom teeth no longer necessary.
Most people get them in their late teens and early twenties. If they’re healthy and properly aligned, they can be an asset. But often, they are misaligned and will require removal to prevent further problems.
When Is Removal of Wisdom Teeth Necessary?
Usually, dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal to prevent short-term and long-term problems, including:
- Alignment. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause your teeth to crowd, making orthodontic treatment necessary to straighten them.
- Cavities. Swollen gums can create pockets between the teeth, helping bacteria grow and causing cavities to form.
- Inflamed gums. The tissue around your wisdom teeth can swell, making it difficult to clean.
- Sinus issues. Problems caused by the extra set of molars can lead to sinus pain, pressure, and congestion.
- Jaw damage. Cysts can form around your wisdom teeth. If left untreated, they can hollow out your jaw and damage the nerves.
- Damage to surrounding teeth. The extra molars can push other teeth around, leading to mouth pain and bite problems.
What Are Signs I Might Have a Problem with My Wisdom Teeth?
If you are holding off on wisdom teeth removal as an adult, you’ll need to keep an eye out for any of these issues and contact your dentist immediately if they arise:
- Extensive tooth decay in the molars
- Damage to other teeth
- Gum disease
- Fluid-filled sacs (cysts)
- Repeated infection of soft tissue behind the lower last tooth
- Pain toward the back of the mouth
If your dentist in Newton decides that wisdom teeth removal is the best course of action for your oral health, the wise move is to address it sooner rather than later to prevent additional problems. It could save you pain and money down the line.
About the Practice
At Newton Corner Dental Care, we offer top-tier, efficient customer service in a convenient location for patients from Newton, Brighton, and surrounding areas. We are in-network with most major PPO dental insurances and offer interest-free financing for greater affordability. Also, we use modern technology to offer the highest-quality care possible. If you are having pain from your wisdom teeth, or another issue where you aren’t sure what’s going on, we will be ready to help as your emergency dentist. Same-day appointments are available, and our highly skilled team prioritizes patient comfort. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (617) 332-6232.
