Wisdom teeth have a reputation. A reputation for causing problems. Because almost every other person you meet has a story about how their wisdom teeth gave them so much trouble. That makes you assume that wisdom teeth must be removed. However, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, wisdom teeth emerge without causing you any trouble or very little pain. And in such cases, the benefits of keeping them make more sense.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Also known as your third molars, wisdom teeth are the last of the adult teeth to develop. They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, although it can vary significantly from person to person. Some may not get their wisdom teeth at all.
It’s believed that these wisdom teeth helped our early ancestors to chew coarse foods. Today, with dietary changes, the necessity of wisdom teeth has diminished. And with changes in our jaw sizes, there is often less space for wisdom teeth, resulting in dental problems. However, that doesn’t mean they are entirely useless.
If your wisdom teeth have enough room to erupt properly, they can function like any other molar – helping you chew, grind and break down food efficiently.
Should All Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
The simple answer is no.
If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing you any trouble, there is no need to remove them. When you visit our dental clinic in Ashgrove, we will assess your wisdom tooth/teeth. If we don’t see any reason for concern – that is, insufficient space in your jaw, impacted wisdom teeth that emerge partially or grow at an angle or cause damage to neighbouring teeth – we will leave them be.
Because sometimes, keeping them can be the best option if they are healthy and easy to clean.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Removed
- Severe Pain: If your wisdom teeth are causing you severe, persistent pain.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When your wisdom teeth emerge partially or at an angle.
- Overcrowded and Misaligned: If your wisdom teeth push against surrounding teeth, affecting dental alignment.
Are There Any Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth?
Yes, there are. Benefits include:
Preserves the Natural Tooth Structure
If the conditions are right and your wisdom teeth grow correctly, they can help preserve the natural tooth structure, ensuring alignment of your teeth. If you remove them without reason, it could affect the overall alignment of your teeth and cause other teeth to shift.
Helps with Chewing
Wisdom teeth that emerge fully and well-aligned help with chewing, especially tough or fibrous foods like steak, roasted chicken and crunchy veggies.
Maintains Jawbone Strength
Your wisdom teeth help maintain jawbone strength and density. What happens when they are removed is that the bone in the area shrinks over time. But keeping wisdom teeth means keeping your jawbone stimulated.
Minimises Surgical Risks
While wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure we perform, it’s not without risks. If there is no clinical reason for wisdom tooth removal, you can avoid unnecessary surgical risks like:
- post-operative pain
- swelling
- risk of infection
- dry socket
- nerve damage
Eliminates the Need for Costly Dental Procedures
When surgical removal is needed, wisdom teeth extraction can be expensive. So, if there is no need to remove wisdom teeth, you can avoid the procedure and save money and time.
When Is It Safe to Keep Wisdom Teeth
Keeping your wisdom teeth without removal is not always recommended. However, it becomes an option if the following conditions are met:
- They are properly aligned with your other molars.
- There’s enough space in your jawbone to prevent overcrowding
- Your wisdom teeth have erupted fully
- They are not causing pain
- You maintain good oral hygiene
How Can I Maintain Healthy Wisdom Teeth?
To make sure your wisdom teeth are healthy and safe to keep, here are a few things you can do:
1. Visit Your Dentist for Regular Dental Check-Ups
When you come in for regular dental examinations, our dentists have the ability to monitor wisdom teeth growth and detect problems, if any.
2. Brush and Floss Your Teeth
Since wisdom teeth are located at the back, it’s a little difficult to clean them thoroughly. So make it a point to pay extra attention to that area.
3. Rinse with an Antibacterial Mouthwash
This helps get rid of unnecessary bacteria in your mouth, including around the wisdom teeth as well.
4. Be Mindful of Your Diet
Pay attention to the food you eat. Avoid sticky and sugary foods as they can get lodged around your wisdom teeth. You should also stay hydrated by drinking water. This helps get rid of food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
Not sure whether to keep or remove your wisdom teeth? A dental consultation with one of our friendly dentists is the way to go about it. Call us today to find out more.
