Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth if They Are Almost Always Removed?

Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to erupt, usually in your late teens or twenties. In some people, wisdom teeth may become impacted or develop problems after erupting. In these cases, wisdom teeth removal is the best option to prevent more serious dental health issues.

Is There Something Wrong With Wisdom Teeth?

No, there is nothing inherently wrong with wisdom teeth. The issue is that many people don’t have enough space in the back of the mouth, which leads to impaction and other associated problems. Some people have wisdom teeth that fully erupt and are completely functional. As long as individuals practice good oral hygiene, there is no need to remove the wisdom teeth if they don’t cause any pain and are healthy.

Why We Remove Wisdom Teeth

Most dentists recommend having them surgically removed even before they become a problem to prevent developing more severe complications later in life. Having wisdom teeth removed when you are older leads to longer healing times, and the surgery is more difficult. The older you are, the longer the roots of your wisdom teeth grow. They may impinge on nerves and blood vessels in the jawbone, making surgery more complex. Many problems can arise if your wisdom teeth are not removed when you are in your teens are twenties, including:

• Impacted wisdom teeth leading to pain, inflammation, and infection
• Crowding of the teeth, pushing other teeth out of alignment
• Infection and gum disease
• Difficulty keeping the teeth clean, leading to tooth decay and gum disease
• Development of cysts or tumors in the jawbone
• Sinus issues such as congestion, sinus headaches, and pressure from the upper wisdom teeth
• Removal later in life is more difficult, resulting in slower recovery and a greater risk of complications.

A thorough dental exam and X-rays are essential if you have not had your wisdom teeth removed. We can assess your wisdom teeth and determine whether they will likely cause you problems in the future. Contact our office at Alaska Oral Surgery Group Office Phone Number 907-278-5678 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Szutz before your third molars become a health issue.