Whether your wisdom teeth have come in or they’re in the developmental stage, they can cause a variety of problems within your mouth. But if they aren’t causing any problems, should you still get your wisdom teeth removed?
At Northview Dental, we understand that you might believe all wisdom teeth should be removed. To understand whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed, it is important to understand the signs that they are causing problems. If you think you might need to get your wisdom teeth removed, keep reading.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Your wisdom teeth are the final set of adult teeth to grow in. Located behind your first and second molar, these teeth generally develop when an individual is between the ages of 17 and 25. While many people may expect their wisdom teeth to emerge, there is no guarantee that they will. Much like the other teeth in your mouth, your wisdom teeth may experience cavities and gum disease. Even if they don’t emerge, your wisdom teeth can cause significant problems for the surrounding teeth and tissue.
Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Whether you should get your wisdom teeth removed or not depends on the way the teeth behave in your mouth. There are several signs that they are causing problems for your mouth, and that you should get your wisdom teeth removed. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should talk to your dentist about getting your wisdom teeth removed:
- Severe jaw pain
- Consistent sinus issues
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Bad breath
- Crooked teeth
While you may have them, not everyone needs to get their wisdom teeth removed. If your wisdom teeth do not pose any problems for your mouth, such as the problems mentioned above, removing them may be deemed unnecessary. However, there may be some signs you don’t notice that indicate you should get your wisdom teeth removed. If you have wisdom teeth and aren’t sure if they should be removed, it is best to speak with your dentist at your next cleaning about whether they believe they are causing problems for your surrounding teeth and tissue.
What Happens if You Don’t Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
If you don’t need to get your wisdom teeth removed, there is no harm in keeping them in your mouth. As long as you care for them properly, they shouldn’t cause any problems for you. However, if you are experiencing problems with them and you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed, they may cause some significant problems.
You may notice the pain in your jaw becoming much more substantial, making it much more difficult to open your mouth and eat food comfortably. In addition to the pain you’ll experience in your jaw, you may develop cysts if you don’t get them removed. These cysts may hollow out your jaw and lead to damage to the surrounding nerves.
Finally, these teeth can lead to sinus problems if not removed when necessary. You may notice an increase in sinus infection and irritation, as well as increasing pressure and congestion. To avoid dealing with any of these unwanted side effects, it is always best to have your wisdom teeth removed when your dentist makes the recommendation.
How Do You Recover After Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you have scheduled a removal, there are a few things you can do to ensure the recovery process is as successful as possible. Make sure you have adequate over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, to help quell any inflammation. You should also avoid any strenuous exercises for a few days and use an extra pillow to elevate your head.
While you are in the recovery process, it is best to eat soft foods, such as yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies. You should be able to return to your normal diet one week after the procedure, though it is best to consult with your dentist if you notice any problems developing during the healing process.
All Your Dental Needs in One Place
Whether you are preparing for a wisdom tooth removal or you have some cavities that need your attention, having a reliable dental team is essential for all of these services. At Northview Dental, our team has years of experience providing dental care to patients across the Northern Utah area, and we’re confident that we’re the right team for you as well.
From dental cleanings and veneers to implants and root canals, our team provides a variety of services to meet your dental needs. If you believe it is time to remove your wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to contact us today.