Wisdom teeth – to extract or not?

One of the most common questions that we get asked by our patients at New Ivory Dental and Implant Clinic happens to be – Do I need to get my wisdom teeth extracted?

The frequency of this question made us realise how crucial this question is and how confusing it can be for patients. Therefore, through this blog, we will uncover the reason behind wisdom teeth removal.

Third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, are the large back teeth in your mouth. These are the last teeth to erupt in the oral cavity and usually come out after the age of 18.

Wisdom teeth do not need to be removed if they have entirely erupted in the proper position and bite and are healthy (devoid of dental decay and infections).

However, in recent times, the incidence of unerupted or improperly erupted wisdom teeth has seen rapid growth as the average jaw size is decreasing. This causes the wisdom teeth to erupt at unusual angles partially. This can make keeping these teeth clean a little complex as the average toothbrush cannot reach that far back. It makes the wisdom teeth susceptible to dental decay and gum diseases. If your wisdom tooth is infected or decayed, your dentist will advise you to opt for its removal to ensure the safety of your remaining healthy teeth.

In some cases, wisdom teeth may not erupt at all and become impacted. This happens when there is no space for the tooth to come out, and the tooth gets trapped in the bone. The tooth keeps pushing the teeth in front as it tries to erupt into the oral cavity. This can lead to immense pain and discomfort. It is important to consult a dental surgeon in Dubai and get the affected wisdom tooth removed in such situations. Delaying treatment leads to chronic pain and puts your second healthy molar at risk.

Impacted and partially erupted third molars are also great hiding spots for bacteria which can affect even the usually erupted and healthy second molar and compromise their structural integrity due to dental cavities or gum infections.

An impacted wisdom tooth can often be associated with pathologies like a cyst or abscess. Any cyst, disease or infection of the third molar makes its removal necessary. Delay can cause the cyst to enlarge and lead to more significant complications. Therefore, it is essential to get your wisdom teeth extracted once advised.

Third molars, especially impacted third molars, can also affect the position of normal teeth. This can lead to some amount of misalignment, which further mandates their removal.

Problems with wisdom teeth can also lead to sinus infections, contributing to pain, pressure, and congestion. The only way to relieve these symptoms is to remove the third molar.

Third molar pain can be localised to the affected tooth or can radiate to the entire jaw, front of the ear, and neck and can even cause headaches. If you think this type of tooth need to be checked, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at New Ivory Dental and Implant Clinic today. Experience the best in class dental care in Dubai with our excellent dentists, and let us help you to better oral and overall health.