4 Reasons Why Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed

Third molars, more commonly known as “wisdom teeth,” are teeth that form in our teenage years. If these teeth can be easily cleaned, stay healthy, grow in properly and don’t affect the bite, they can stay in the mouth for a lifetime. Wisdom teeth often require removal, or extraction, if they are causing problems or to prevent problems later in life. Some of the reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be removed range from impaction to cysts and tumors.

Impaction

This occurs when the wisdom tooth does not have enough room to grow completely through the gum tissue or grows on its side. Many people’s jaw bones are not large enough for their wisdom teeth to grow completely into their mouth to use. When a wisdom tooth is impacted it can be a source of potential problems. It is recommended to remove these types of wisdom teeth as they can cause pain, infection, damage to other teeth or other dental problems.

Infection

Some impacted wisdom teeth are poking through the gum tissue but not completely out. The gum tissue surrounding the part of the tooth we can see can become inflamed and infected, a condition called “pericoronitis.” Pericoronitis, which is more common around the lower wisdom teeth, causes pain, swelling and sometimes difficulty opening your mouth.

Cavities

Wisdom teeth being all the way in the back of the mouth are often hard to keep clean with brushing and flossing, and the problem worsens when the teeth are growing in against other teeth. In this case, the wisdom teeth can develop large cavities which can cause pain or lead to larger infections in the face and neck. 

Cysts and Tumors

Impacted wisdom teeth that are not removed have the ability to develop benign but sometimes aggressive cysts and tumors. These cysts and tumors can grow and damage other teeth and bone in the area and can cause pain or swelling that changes the look of your face. If these cysts or tumors occur, they require surgical removal along with any teeth in the area to prevent further issues.

The removal of wisdom teeth is a common procedure. It is recommended that you discuss your or your child’s wisdom teeth with your dentist so they can determine if referral to an oral surgeon is necessary for evaluation and removal. Removing wisdom teeth at the right time can help prevent complications and promote a healthy oral cavity.