So, why do wisdom teeth need to be removed? Wisdom teeth may need to be removed when they are impacted, painful, difficult to clean, infected, or causing damage to nearby teeth.
Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth. Most people develop up to one to four wisdom teeth.
When there isn't enough room for a wisdom tooth to fully emerge, it can become impacted. An impacted tooth may grow at an angle, remain trapped beneath the gums, or press against the neighboring tooth.
Impacted wisdom teeth can become difficult to clean and may increase the risk of dental problems. Depending on their position, they may contribute to pain, infection, tooth decay, or damage to nearby teeth.
Wisdom teeth can cause pain or tenderness as they emerge or become impacted. Recurring discomfort at the back of your jaw should be evaluated by a dentist.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create a flap of gum tissue where food and bacteria become trapped. This can lead to pericoronitis, an infection that may cause swollen or painful gums, bad breath, an unpleasant taste, or difficulty opening your mouth.
Wisdom teeth are located far back in the mouth and can be difficult to brush and floss. Their position may allow plaque and food particles to accumulate, increasing the risk of cavities.
An impacted wisdom tooth may press against the second molar. Depending on its position, this can contribute to decay or damage involving the neighboring tooth.
In some cases, an impacted wisdom tooth can be associated with a cyst around the tooth. Although uncommon, cysts can damage surrounding bone or nearby teeth.
No. Healthy wisdom teeth that have erupted properly, function normally, and can be kept clean may not need to be removed.
Your dentist may recommend monitoring them instead. The decision depends on their position, symptoms, ability to be cleaned, and overall oral health.
Wisdom teeth don't automatically need to be removed. However, extraction may be recommended when they are impacted, infected, painful, difficult to clean, or causing problems for nearby teeth.
Regular dental examinations and X-rays can help determine whether your wisdom teeth should be removed or monitored.
