Have you ever wondered why some wisdom teeth need to be removed while others don’t? Nearly 85% of all wisdom teeth will eventually need to be removed, but how do you know if you’re in the majority or the minority? Of course, it is important to visit your dentist to check the status of your wisdom teeth, but here are a few warning signs that could indicate the need to have your third molars removed.
- Pain can often be the first indicator that something is wrong—and it could be the first sign that it’s time to have a wisdom tooth removed. Because your wisdom teeth are larger than your other teeth, it could be an unpleasant experience. It can be even more painful if your wisdom teeth are growing under your other teeth. If you try over-the-counter medications and they don’t work, please contact your dentist.
- When teeth come through gums, they can leave a small space where food can lodge. If this happens, you will have more bacteria in your mouth, which could lead to an infection. These spaces can even occur of the tooth is impacted. Also, the food inside the area could be difficult to adequately clean. If you have several consecutive infections, you may need to remove your wisdom teeth.
- When your wisdom teeth grow under your other teeth, it may cause your teeth to shift. This can lead to pressure in your mouth and cause damage to your other teeth. If this is the case, the eruption of your wisdom tooth could shift the rest of your team. In fact, if this situation is left untreated, any dental work you’ve had could be undone.
If you are interested in learning more, please feel free to contact us today. We are excited to hear from you soon.
