Wisdom Tooth: Keep It or Remove It? Decide Wisely!

Dr.Prabigya Shiwakoti  |  September 10, 2024  |  6 min read

Wisdom Tooth: Keep It or Remove It? Decide Wisely!

Most of us are familiar with the term “wisdom tooth”. Despite the name, wisdom teeth have little to do with actual wisdom, but careful consideration is needed when deciding whether to keep or remove them. Wisdom teeth refer to the third molars, the last set of teeth to emerge, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately, many people lack sufficient space in their mouths to accommodate these teeth, which can lead to various complications such as pain, swelling, infections, and crowding of the remaining teeth. When there isn’t enough room for them to fully erupt, these teeth are classified as impacted.

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth If There’s No Room?

A common question is: “If there’s no space for them, why do we have wisdom teeth at all?” The main reason wisdom teeth become impacted is that there isn’t enough room in the jaw behind the second molar, which has already settled into place by the time wisdom teeth attempt to emerge. Why this lack of space occurs isn’t fully understood, one common idea suggests that our ancestors needed these extra molars to help chew tougher foods like roots, nuts, and raw meat. Over time, with the advent of softer diets and better dental care, human jaws have evolved to be smaller, rendering wisdom teeth less necessary and more problematic.

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure performed by dental surgeons. However, predicting which wisdom teeth will cause problems and which won’t is not always straightforward. Typically, wisdom teeth are removed when they cause discomfort or other issues. If a wisdom tooth erupts properly and aligns well with the rest of the teeth, it may not pose any problems. However, when there’s insufficient space, they may become impacted. Impacted teeth can emerge at awkward angles—angular, horizontal, or vertical—or only partially, making them difficult to clean and prone to infection. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth.

Another reason for wisdom tooth removal is to prevent damage to the adjacent second molar. To protect the second molar from decay or damage, dental professionals sometimes recommend early removal of the wisdom teeth, even if they aren’t causing symptoms.

Possible Complications of Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth can lead to a range of complications beyond simple discomfort. These include:

• Infections: When wisdom teeth are only partially erupted, bacteria can easily enter the gums, leading to painful infections. This can cause swelling, difficulty swallowing, and a bad taste in the mouth.
• Cysts and Tumours: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that form in the jawbone. If left untreated, these cysts can damage the surrounding teeth, nerves, and bone. Although tumours are extremely rare, they can sometimes develop from the impacted wisdom teeth.
• Caries or Cavities: Wisdom teeth that are difficult to clean due to their position can increase the risk of cavities.

When to Keep Your Wisdom Teeth

While many people need their wisdom teeth removed, not everyone does. If your wisdom teeth erupt properly and you maintain good oral hygiene, they may not need to be extracted. Dentists often advise keeping wisdom teeth under the following conditions:

• Proper Eruption: The wisdom teeth have fully emerged in a straight position and align with the opposing teeth.
• Healthy Gums and Teeth: There is no sign of decay, gum disease, or damage to adjacent teeth.
• Easy to Clean: You are able to clean the wisdom teeth effectively, preventing plaque buildup and decay.

Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor your wisdom teeth, ensuring they do not cause future problems.

If your wisdom teeth are not causing issues, your dentist may recommend regular monitoring to ensure they remain healthy. Regular X-rays and check-ups can help detect potential problems early on.

Post-Extraction Care

If you decide to remove your wisdom teeth, proper post-surgery care is essential for a smooth recovery. Follow these tips to manage pain and promote healing:

• Rest: After surgery, take it easy for the first few days. Avoid physical exertion to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to the outside of your cheeks can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies for the first few days to avoid irritating the extraction site.
• Avoid Straws and Smoking: Using a straw or smoking can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket, leading to a painful condition known as dry socket. Avoid these activities for at least a week.
• Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with warm saline water to keep the extraction site clean. Avoid brushing near the extraction area for the first few days.

Some Facts About Wisdom Teeth Removal

• Removing wisdom teeth is generally easier in younger people because the tooth roots are not fully developed and the bone is less dense.
• Extracting wisdom teeth before complications arise often results in a shorter recovery period and less post-surgery discomfort.
• An impacted wisdom tooth can cause damage to the adjacent second molar.
• Removal of impacted wisdom teeth may cause temporary complications like swelling, bleeding, and pain, but these typically resolve within a week.

Your dentist or an oral surgeon can provide guidance on whether you’re a candidate for wisdom tooth extraction. The reality is that wisdom teeth often do not fit well in our mouths, and they can lead to problems such as crowding, gum disease, or bone issues. Consult your dentist to determine the best option for your situation or book a consult with us.

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