Many people cringe at the thought of a tooth extraction. There is a reason that people use the simile “like pulling teeth” to describe unpleasant experiences. Because of this negative connotation or any bad stories heard over the years, it can be nerve-racking to start thinking about getting your wisdom teeth pulled. However, as you (or your child) approach your late teens, it is important to spare a thought or two for those big molars at the back of the mouth.
Wisdom teeth are so named because of when they finally decide to grow in and make an appearance. As with most dental events, the date at which wisdom teeth erupt can vary quite a bit, but usually falls somewhere between the ages of 17 and 25. As such, these teeth are coming in just as kids are growing up, graduating high school or college, and venturing out into the real world. Said another way, they arrive just as young adults are “getting their wisdom.”
Do I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Pulled?
The most popular question about wisdom teeth—both from dental patients and their parents—is whether or not they will have to be extracted. The truest answer to this question, at least in general terms, is “it depends.” In some cases, patients will have wisdom teeth that are impacted or won’t have enough room in their mouths to fit them comfortably. In other cases, there will be plenty of space for the wisdom teeth to coexist comfortably with the rest of the teeth.
In any case where wisdom teeth do need to be extracted, it is worth noting that pulling the teeth will likely cause less pain,less cost, and less damage than trying to keep them. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, that means that they are residing below the gum line and growing horizontally instead of vertically.
This type of condition is dangerous for several reasons. With the wisdom teeth inaccessible (and therefore difficult to clean), they become breeding grounds for bacteria and plaque. Since they are growing horizontally, meanwhile, they can start pushing into the second molars, which can be extremely painful. What’s more, an impacted wisdom tooth can slowly crush the roots of your second molars, permanently damaging the teeth and causing long-term dental problems.
Even if wisdom teeth are growing vertically, though, there may not be enough room in your mouth to house them comfortably. In such cases, the wisdom teeth will essentially fight the other teeth for space. These battles due to crowding in the mouth can result in crooked teeth or even malocclusions (misalignments of the upper and lower teeth).
When Pulling Wisdom Teeth Is the Key to Overall Dental Health
As you can see from both of the scenarios described above, there is a chance that keeping your wisdom teeth could do considerable damage to your long-term dental health. Having your wisdom teeth extracted, then, might not just be the key to a straighter smile, but to good dental hygiene in general.
Certainly, having your wisdom teeth removed can help dentists and orthodontists keep your teeth straight. Straighter teeth are easier to brush and easier to floss, which means that having straighter teeth can help you prevent cavities or gum disease. In addition, studies have shown that straighter teeth are an aid to confidence and self-esteem—which can, in turn, lead to greater success professionally, personally, and romantically.
The Best Course of Action for You
Some dentists recommend that all patients get their wisdom teeth removed, simply because wisdom teeth are difficult to brush, floss, and clean effectively. As a result, they are typically more susceptible to cavities, which can be problematic for your overall dental health.
With that said, if you don’t have impacted wisdom teeth or crowding due to insufficient space in your mouth, is ultimately up to you whether or not to get your wisdom teeth pulled. In any case, it is best to consult a dental professional and get wisdom teeth x-rays to determine what the best course of action is for you. Your dentist will be able to give you all of the details and advice you need to come to a smart and informed decision.