Do I Need Wisdom Tooth Removal: Signs It's Time to Get Them Taken Out
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that grow during human development. Most wisdom teeth erupt (or try to) in a person’s late teens or early 20s. While some people have no problems with wisdom teeth development and eruption, it is far more common for issues to occur. Wisdom tooth extractions alleviate pain and prevent potential dental problems.
The dentists at Bethel Dental in Accra, Ghana, help patients consider if they need wisdom tooth removal and the signs it’s time to get them removed to prevent further dental complications. Our dentists can perform the procedure in-office for those requiring extraction, saving the need for a costly trip to a specialist.
Do I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed. When the wisdom teeth fully erupt in their correct position without overcrowding the teeth or interfering with oral hygiene habits, removal is not necessary. Unfortunately, most people require the removal of one or more of their wisdom teeth. Recognizing the signs that wisdom teeth need to be removed can allow individuals to seek prompt treatment before complications develop.
Oral Pain
Oral pain is a common sign that wisdom teeth removal is necessary. Pain may vary in severity, ranging from increased sensitivity to throbbing pain. Pain is most common when biting or chewing, but may be present when no oral functions are performed. Many people experience pain at the site of the wisdom teeth, but it is also common for discomfort to radiate into the jaw or sinuses. People who experience ongoing pain or increased sensitivity should schedule a dental exam to evaluate wisdom teeth development.
Gum Inflammation
As the wisdom teeth begin erupting, surrounding gum tissues can become irritated. Some people experience inflammation of the gum tissues. The gums may appear red and swollen and can feel tender to the touch. Some people experience bleeding when brushing their teeth. Gum inflammation may indicate problems with wisdom teeth development.
Overcrowding
One of the most common reasons for wisdom teeth removal is that the jaw is too small to accommodate the teeth. As wisdom teeth erupt, they often bump into adjacent teeth, causing overcrowding and throwing off the bite’s alignment. The wisdom teeth can also grow sideways, causing further alignment problems.
Tooth Decay and Oral Infection
Even when wisdom teeth fully erupt, they can cause problems if they are not positioned correctly. Wisdom teeth can grow too close to adjacent teeth, creating tight spaces between the teeth that attract bacteria and are difficult to clean properly. As bacteria build-up, tooth decay can occur.
Just as overcrowded wisdom teeth can cause tooth decay, they can also cause oral infections, such as root canal infection and gum disease. When tooth decay, dental cavities, or oral infections develop due to wisdom teeth, it is a good idea to have the wisdom teeth extracted.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction at Bethel Dental
The dentists at Bethel Dental offer safe and effective wisdom tooth extraction in-office. Treatment is performed with a local anesthetic to ensure patient comfort and incisions are closed with self-dissolving stitches that do not require removal. Wisdom tooth extraction at our dental practice saves patients the time and money of seeing a surgical specialist.
Contact Us
Individuals experiencing pain, overcrowding, or any other issues related to wisdom teeth should schedule an appointment with the experienced dentists at Bethel Dental to learn if wisdom tooth extraction is necessary. To get started, contact our dental practice at your earliest convenience.