Wisdom Teeth Removal: Why is it Important?
Wisdom teeth, scientifically known as third molars, are the last set of molars that typically appear in a person's late teens to early twenties. And they mark the end of your dental development.
Before, these teeth were essential for our ancestors who had a tougher diet that required extra grinding and chewing power. However, with modern diets and improved dental hygiene practices, wisdom teeth have become more of a burden than a benefit.
So, why take out wisdom teeth? Here's why:
1. Lack of space
One of the primary reasons for wisdom teeth removal is the limited space within the human jaw. Most individuals do not have enough room to accommodate these additional molars comfortably. As wisdom teeth begin to emerge, they often lead to crowding issues, mainly because there isn't sufficient space for them to fully erupt.
Consequently, these molars might become impacted, trapped beneath the gum line, or partially erupt, creating an environment susceptible to bacterial infection.
2. Impaction and Infection
Impacted wisdom teeth can serve as breeding grounds for infection and inflammation. Due to their challenging location, cleaning these teeth adequately can be nearly impossible, making them more susceptible to decay and gum disease. Infections stemming from wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and general discomfort, often necessitating immediate attention and antibiotic treatment.
3. Misalignment
The eruption of wisdom teeth can also disrupt the alignment of existing teeth. These late-blooming molars may push against neighbouring teeth, causing them to shift out of their proper positions. This can result in bite problems, misalignment issues, and even the need for orthodontic treatment to rectify the changes.
4. Cyst Formation
In some unfortunate cases, a sac of fluid known as a cyst can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. These cysts can lead to more extensive jaw and tooth damage, potentially requiring surgical intervention for removal.
5. Pain and Discomfort
Wisdom teeth can be a source of chronic pain and discomfort. Whether they're stuck, infected, or misaligned, these molars frequently cause ongoing issues that can significantly impact one's quality of life.
Why It’s Important to Take Action Early
Because of these potential problems, many dentists suggest taking out wisdom teeth before they cause trouble. The best time for removal is usually in your late teens or early twenties when the roots are not fully formed yet. This proactive removal prevents future complications, reduces the risks of infections and misalignment, and saves patients from ongoing pain and discomfort.
According to research, the following symptoms are important indicators that you need to see your local dentist as soon as possible:
- Pain or sensitivity
- Inflammation or pressure
- Difficulty opening the mouth and swallowing
- Wisdom tooth crown emerging through the gums
- Bad breath
In short, removing wisdom teeth is a smart move to prevent possible dental problems. Whether it's because there's not enough space, they're stuck, infected, causing discomfort, or messing up your other teeth, these latecomers can bring a lot of trouble. By acting early and talking to a dentist, you protect your oral health and avoid unnecessary pain and issues down the road.
If you're dealing with wisdom teeth pain or discomfort in Toowoomba, or if you haven't had them checked by a local dentist, contact
Garden City Dental Practice today and we'll help you get started.
