The wisdom tooth, or third molar, is the last tooth to develop, typically emerging between ages 17 and 25. While some people have healthy wisdom teeth, others experience impaction, pain, or infections, making removal necessary.
So, should you keep or extract your wisdom tooth? Let’s explore.
Why Do Some People Need Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Dentists often recommend wisdom tooth extraction due to common problems such as:
1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth (Pain & Infection)
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to erupt properly, they become impacted—leading to swelling, pain, and infection (pericoronitis). In severe cases, cysts or tumors may form, damaging nearby teeth and jawbone.
If you’ve had braces or orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth may shift your teeth out of alignment. This can undo years of dental work and create spacing issues.
3. Tooth Decay & Gum Disease
Partially erupted wisdom teeth trap food and bacteria, increasing the risk of:
Because wisdom teeth are hard to clean, plaque buildup can lead to serious oral health issues over time.
4. Preventive Extraction (Avoid Future Problems)
In some cases, dentists recommend removal before symptoms appear, especially for younger patients whose roots aren’t fully developed. This reduces surgical risks and recovery time.
When Can You Keep Your Wisdom Teeth?
Not every wisdom tooth needs removal! You may keep your wisdom teeth if:
✅ Fully Erupted & Aligned – The tooth has emerged correctly and doesn’t cause discomfort.
✅ No Decay or Infection – The wisdom tooth is healthy and easy to clean.
✅ No Impact on Other Teeth – The tooth does not push or misalign other teeth.
✅ Close to Nerves (High Surgical Risk) – If removal poses a risk of nerve damage, monitoring may be safer.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your wisdom teeth using X-rays or CBCT scans to determine if extraction is necessary.
Wisdom Tooth Removal: What to Expect
If extraction is needed, here’s what happens:
👨⚕️ 1. Consultation & X-Ray
Your dentist will take X-rays to assess the tooth’s position and discuss removal options (local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia).
⚡ 2. The Extraction Procedure
✔ Simple Extraction – If the tooth is fully erupted, it is removed easily.
✔ Surgical Extraction – If the tooth is impacted, the gum is cut open for removal.
The procedure typically takes 20–40 minutes per tooth.
Final Thoughts: Should You Remove Your Wisdom Tooth?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If your wisdom teeth are causing pain, crowding, or infection, removal is best. However, healthy, well-aligned wisdom teeth can remain if properly maintained.
📍 Still unsure? Book a consultation with BeautyBrace Dental today for a professional assessment!
