Know Why Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed

Understanding When and Why Wisdom Teeth Should Be Removed

Hearing that you need your wisdom teeth removed can be stressful. Many people feel anxious about dental surgery, but understanding the wisdom teeth removal process can help ease your concerns. At Creve Coeur Dental, we aim to answer your questions and help you feel more prepared if you need wisdom teeth removal in Creve Coeur, MO. Below, we’ll explain what wisdom teeth are, the reasons they often need to be taken out, and what you can expect during the procedure.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last molars to emerge in the back of your mouth. Also known as third molars, they typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Anthropologists believe these teeth were once essential for our ancestors, helping them chew tough, raw foods like roots, nuts, and meat. As diets evolved and jaws became smaller, the need for these extra molars diminished. Today, many people’s jaws don’t have enough space to accommodate these late arrivals. This lack of room is a primary reason why wisdom teeth can cause a variety of dental problems.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to erupt properly, they can become impacted. This can lead to several complications, which are common signs you need wisdom teeth removed:

Impaction – Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at various angles and remain trapped completely beneath the gum line or only partially emerge. This abnormal positioning can push against neighboring teeth, causing them to shift and become misaligned.
Pain and Discomfort – Pain is a common sign that you need your wisdom teeth removed. It can range from an ache in the back of your jaw to shooting pains, especially when chewing. Swelling and tenderness in the gums around the impacted tooth are also frequent symptoms.
Infection and Gum Disease – Partially erupted wisdom teeth create a flap of gum tissue that can easily trap food particles and bacteria. This area is difficult to clean, making it a breeding ground for infection, a condition known as pericoronitis.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth – An impacted wisdom tooth pushing against the second molar can cause significant damage. It may lead to cavities on the neighboring tooth, root resorption (where the root structure dissolves), and bone loss.

Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Always Necessary?

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed. If your wisdom teeth have grown in completely and correctly and are healthy, they may not need to be extracted. However, even wisdom teeth that seem problem-free can cause issues later in life. They’re located far back in the mouth, making it difficult to brush and floss them effectively. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease over time. Regular dental checkups, including X-rays, are crucial for monitoring your wisdom teeth. Your dentist can track their development and positioning, helping you decide when removal is the best course of action.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure

Wisdom teeth removal is a common surgery performed by an oral surgeon. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Consultation and X-Rays – Your oral surgeon will take X-rays to see the exact position of your wisdom teeth and surrounding bone. This helps them plan the extraction and decide on the best type of anesthesia.
Anesthesia – To ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free, you’ll receive anesthesia. Your dentist will discuss the best anesthesia options for you based on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level.
Extraction – Once you’re sedated, the surgeon will begin. If the tooth is impacted, they’ll make an incision in the gum tissue. To make the tooth easier to remove, it might be divided into smaller sections. The surgeon then carefully removes the tooth.
Cleaning and Stitching – After the tooth is out, the site is cleaned of any debris. Stitches may be used to close the wound and promote healing. Some stitches dissolve on their own, while others need to be removed a week or so later.

Why We Recommend Early Removal

Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth in the late teens or early twenties. There are several advantages to proactive, early removal:

Easier Procedure – In younger patients, the roots of the wisdom teeth aren’t fully formed, and the surrounding bone is less dense. This makes the teeth easier to remove and often results in a less complicated surgery.
Faster Recovery – Younger people generally heal faster. The recovery period is often shorter and involves fewer complications than extractions in older adults.
Preventing Future Problems – Removing wisdom teeth before they cause pain, crowding, or infection helps you avoid more serious dental issues. Wisdom teeth removal surgery can save you from future discomfort and more complex treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal

How long does wisdom teeth removal take?

The length of wisdom teeth removal depends on the complexity of the procedure and the number of teeth being extracted. On average, the procedure itself typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

What’s the recovery like after wisdom teeth removal?

Recovery typically takes a few days. You can expect some swelling and mild discomfort. Your oral surgeon will prescribe pain medication and provide instructions for managing swelling with ice packs. For the first few days post-surgery, stick to a soft food diet.

What can I eat after my surgery?

For the first 48 hours, eat soft or liquid foods like yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soup. Avoid spicy or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Don’t use a straw. The suction can dislodge the crucial blood clot.

Take the Fear Out of Wisdom Teeth Removal

While the idea of surgery can be daunting, it’s a routine procedure that can prevent significant pain and dental problems in the future. By understanding the process and the reasons behind it, you can approach the situation with confidence. If you’re in the Creve Coeur area and have concerns about your wisdom teeth, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discuss your options.