When Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recommended?

Although wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures practiced in oral medicine, many are unfamiliar with why it may be needed or recommended. Each individual has varying needs, which means the reasoning for a wisdom tooth extraction may be different for everyone. However, there are a few common scenarios in which a general dentist may recommend extraction of the wisdom teeth. 

When does a dentist recommend wisdom tooth extraction?

The following information can be helpful for individuals who are not sure whether or not a wisdom tooth extraction is necessary.

Discomfort

If there is any discomfort, pain, or irritation after the wisdom teeth have erupted, then a general dentist will likely recommend a wisdom tooth extraction. Typically, the upper and lower jaw as well as the back molars will feel sore and achy. When the wisdom teeth erupt, there is a lot of pressure occurring, which can lead to discomfort. Oftentimes, the pain does not go away because the eruption process takes time, which is why extraction is advised. 

Crowding

General dentists may suggest wisdom tooth extraction if the other rooted adult teeth begin to crowd. Crowding often occurs when the wisdom teeth erupt because the jaw was not large enough to hold additional teeth. While crowding may seem harmless, it is actually detrimental to one's oral health. When the wisdom teeth erupt in an oral cavity that does not have enough room, then the other teeth are forced to shift, which can result in pressure and discomfort. Additionally, crowded teeth pose a risk to oral health as it makes it more difficult to clean the teeth properly, thus leading to higher chances of gum disease or tooth decay. 

Infection

Wisdom tooth extraction is strongly recommended when there is any sort of infection. Even if there are no other symptoms, it may be recommended to have the teeth removed from the oral cavity. Infected wisdom teeth pose a huge risk to the rest of the oral cavity. The gums and other rooted adult teeth become prone to developing the infection. If it spreads then gum disease or cavities may develop, which can lead to serious problems.

Impacted 

A general dentist may also recommend wisdom tooth extraction if the teeth themselves become impacted. Wisdom teeth are considered impacted when they are stuck beneath the gums and do not come through. While this may sound unlikely, a lot of individuals actually suffer from this when their wisdom teeth should erupt. In most cases, an extraction is necessary or else the gums may become infected. 

Reach out today

There are a lot of indicators that can be used to determine whether or not wisdom tooth extraction is necessary. However, ultimately, the recommended way to tell is to consult with a general dentist. An evaluation can be done in order to determine whether or not extraction is the appropriate route to take. Reach out today to find out more about wisdom tooth extraction or to get started with an evaluation.  

Request an appointment here: https://familydentistnewrochelle.com or call Zen Dentistry Westchester at (914) 826-8363 for an appointment in our New Rochelle office.

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