Although wisdom teeth take the longest time to grow, you might have to have them pulled in certain situations. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow at the edge of the mouth, usually between your teenage years and early adulthood.
Depending on the individual, these molars can be one, two, three, or four. Some people even have supernumerary wisdom teeth in addition to the regular set of four. If you’re wondering, “Why do I need my wisdom teeth removed,” this article is for you.
Sinus Issues
Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the sinus walls causing inflammation, headaches, and congestion. It’s not uncommon for tooth infections to spread to neighboring sinus cavities. According to past studies, 40% of maxillary sinus conditions have a dental cause.
The opposite is also true—sinus infections can spread to your upper wisdom teeth. If you only feel pain in your bottom teeth, chances are you’re suffering from a different oral problem and not sinuses.
Damage to Previous Dental Work
Wisdom teeth can interfere with various dental treatments. For starters, they can misalign the neighboring teeth, interfering with the outcome of braces and aligners. Another challenge is oral hygiene. Wisdom teeth are harder to clean and more prone to decay because of their position at the edge of the mouth. Such infections can spread to surrounding dental restorations like root canals.
Additionally, impacted wisdom teeth can weaken dental implants, crowns, and fillings or damage them altogether. Impacted teeth are those that haven’t broken through the gum because they’re facing the wrong direction or are blocked by other teeth.
Cysts
Dental cysts (fluid-filled sacs) can surround the crown of the impacted wisdom tooth. As it grows, the cyst exerts pressure on the neighboring healthy teeth and tissues, causing pain, infection, and even tumors.
To prevent the condition from worsening, the dentist will extract the cyst, impacted tooth, and other affected tissues. The earlier your wisdom teeth are removed, the faster the cyst heals.
When Is Extraction Not Required?
Now that you know why you may need your wisdom teeth removed, let’s explore when it isn’t necessary to have an extraction.
- Your teeth are healthy and functional
- Your teeth are properly aligned and erupted
- Your teeth are easily accessible with a toothbrush and floss
- Your jaw has sufficient space to accommodate wisdom teeth without crowding
Why Do I Need My Wisdom Teeth Removed? Visit Us To Learn More
You don’t have to deal with painful wisdom teeth when you can get the compassionate dental care you deserve. If you’re questioning, “Why do I need my wisdom teeth removed,” contact us at LeCroy Dental to get your teeth checked.