Do You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgery procedures, yet many people are unsure when it’s necessary or why it might be beneficial. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your wisdom teeth, understanding the timing and reasons for extraction is essential.
Our Tacoma, WA, dentist is here to help. We’ll guide you through the signs and factors that indicate the need for wisdom teeth removal and answer your questions about the process. Contact our Tacoma dental office today at (253) 761-5422 to schedule a consultation.
Wisdom Teeth Growth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While they can grow without issue, these late-developing molars often lead to problems, including impaction, crowding, or oral health complications.
In some cases, regular monitoring and excellent oral hygiene can keep healthy wisdom teeth in check. However, when issues arise, timely removal of the impacted wisdom teeth is often the best solution to protect your smile.
Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impaction occurs when a tooth fails to fully emerge from the gums. Common types of impacted wisdom teeth include:
- Vertical impaction: The tooth is angled correctly but stuck in the jawbone.
- Horizontal impaction: The tooth grows sideways, pressing into neighboring teeth.
- Distal impaction: The tooth angles backward, away from adjacent teeth.
- Mesial impaction: The tooth angles forward, toward other teeth.
A dental exam and X-rays can determine the type of impaction and whether removal is necessary.
Signs Indicating the Need for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Persistent Pain and Discomfort
One of the most common issues associated with wisdom teeth is persistent pain and discomfort. You may experience any of the following:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Gum disease or tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Bacterial buildup in broken gums
Inflammation and Infection
Inflammation and infection are critical signs indicating the need for wisdom teeth removal. Oral inflammation is often caused by wisdom teeth breaking through the gum line and impacting the surrounding gum tissue. Symptoms include:
- Swelling in the gums or jaw
- Recurring bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Formation of cysts near impacted teeth
Tooth Crowding and Damage
Tooth crowding and damage caused by wisdom teeth can lead to:
- Shifting or overcrowded teeth
- Increased risk of decay and gum disease
- Painful sores or dry sockets
If your dentist notices that your wisdom teeth are causing tooth crowding or damage, it’s crucial to consider their removal to maintain your overall oral health. Early intervention can prevent more severe complications that may require extensive dental treatment.
Factors Affecting the Decision to Remove Wisdom Teeth
Age and Timing
Dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal at a younger age — typically between the ages of 18 and 24 — to avoid complications that may arise from the bone and tooth roots being fully formed. Extracting wisdom teeth at an earlier age, when only two-thirds of the roots have formed, is advantageous as healing typically progresses more quickly after the procedure.
Wisdom teeth removal can be performed at any age, and the decision should be based on individual circumstances and the advice of your dentist or oral surgeon.
Oral Health
Poor oral health can potentially increase the risk of complications during the procedure. Before the procedure, our dentist will ensure you’re in good overall oral health. Maintaining proper hygiene post wisdom teeth removal is also vital for preventing complications and ensuring a smooth recovery.
Orthodontic Considerations
If a patient is receiving orthodontic treatment, an orthodontist might recommend the removal of wisdom teeth to prevent any potential future alignment issues or to create space.
Prophylactic Removal
Some dental professionals recommend the removal of wisdom teeth even if they aren’t currently causing problems. The rationale is that potential complications can be avoided, and younger patients might recover from the procedure more quickly than older individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is wisdom teeth removal?
The wisdom tooth removal procedure itself is performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain. After surgery, most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with pain relief and rest.
Do I need to remove wisdom teeth if they aren’t causing problems?
Not always. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor their position. If your dentist predicts future issues, early removal might be recommended to avoid complications.
Schedule Your Wisdom Teeth Consultation in Tacoma, WA
If you’re experiencing symptoms or unsure about your wisdom teeth, don’t wait. Our Tacoma dental team specializes in wisdom teeth evaluation and removal. We proudly serve patients in Lakewood, Federal Way, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and University Place.
Call us at (253) 761-5422 to book your consultation today and protect your smile for years to come!
