Considering Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What You Need to Know

October 10, 2023

[wpbread]

Services

Wisdom teeth, those backmost molars, become a topic of concern for many dental patients.

The prospect of wisdom tooth removal can be daunting, and you might be asking yourself, “Do I really have to get my wisdom teeth removed?”

While wisdom teeth extraction is a standard dental procedure, it’s not always a necessity.

Keep reading to learn more about when wisdom tooth removal is required and why so many dentists recommend it.

Not Everyone Has Wisdom Teeth

While many people have wisdom teeth, not everyone develops them. The rest of your permanent teeth come in during childhood, but wisdom teeth erupt much later (if you have them).

It’s common to have four wisdom teeth, but some people have fewer or even none at all. Unfortunately, others may even have a fifth wisdom tooth! The more wisdom teeth you have, the more likely they require removal. But those without any wisdom teeth are lucky enough to not need extraction.

Do Wisdom Teeth Require Preventative Removal?

Dentists often advise wisdom tooth removal before wisdom teeth erupt. In reality, wisdom tooth extraction is often a preventative operation. The dentist assesses your dental X-rays to evaluate how wisdom teeth are positioned.

Impacted wisdom teeth are one of the main reasons for removal. When wisdom teeth do not have space to fully erupt, they can get trapped beneath the gum line. They can also grow into the neighboring teeth, causing pain or alignment problems.

Extracting wisdom teeth before they come in prevents impaction and damage to adjacent teeth.

Do You Have to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

If you already have wisdom teeth, you might be wondering whether they need to be removed. Here are some indicators that suggest the need for wisdom teeth removal:

Wisdom teeth are causing damage to other teeth.
Cysts are developing around the wisdom teeth.
New sinus issues, such as pressure and congestion, have emerged.
Gum inflammation around the wisdom teeth.
You’re experiencing cavities in your back molars.
Wisdom teeth are affecting the alignment of your other teeth.

Wisdom Tooth Removal in Downtown Toronto, ON

If your wisdom teeth are bothering you or you think you may require pre-emptive removal, then visit Dr. Kinga Dentistry in Downtown Toronto for a consultation. Our knowledgeable dentist will assess your oral health and help you determine if you need wisdom tooth extraction.