Do I Need to Remove My Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth in the mouth to erupt and do not play a major role in the chewing function. They are known as 'wisdom teeth' because they erupt when a person reaches adulthood and is older and wiser.

Complications of Wisdom Teeth

If wisdom teeth start showing symptoms, they should not be ignored and should be treated immediately. Otherwise, it can lead to complications such as:

Impaction

Wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they do not have enough room to emerge properly and can become trapped in the jaw or gums. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection.

Crowding

Wisdom teeth can cause crowding of other teeth in the mouth, resulting in misalignment and difficulty cleaning. This can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

Decay and Gum Disease

Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. This can lead to the loss of surrounding teeth and other oral health problems.

Cyst Formation

Wisdom teeth can develop cysts and fluid-filled sacs that can damage the surrounding jawbone and teeth.

Pain and Swelling

Wisdom teeth can cause pain and swelling in the back of the mouth, especially if they become impacted or infected.

The Final Word

It's important to have regular dental checkups to monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and spot and address potential complications. If your dentist determines that your wisdom teeth are causing problems, they may recommend removing them to maintain good oral health.

If you or someone you know is suffering from wisdom tooth pain, contact or visit Coastal Periodontics today. Their highly skilled and esteemed staff will be happy to assist you with all your dental needs.