Why Do Dentists Recommend Wisdom Teeth Removal So Often?

Posted .

Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common dental procedures performed worldwide. If you have visited your dentist or oral surgeon, chances are you have been told that your wisdom teeth need to be extracted–even if they are not causing pain. But why do dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal so often?

Many people wonder if removing wisdom teeth is really necessary. While some individuals experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, others face serious complications if these teeth are left untreated. This article will explore the key reasons why dentists often recommend wisdom tooth extraction, what happens if they are not removed and what you should expect from the procedure.

If you are unsure whether to schedule a wisdom tooth extraction, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

WHAT ARE WISDOM TEETH?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to emerge in the mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25, a period sometimes referred to as the “age of wisdom,” hence the name.

While these teeth were useful for our ancestors, who had a tougher diet that required more chewing power, modern diets and evolutionary changes have made wisdom teeth less necessary. Over time, human jaws have become smaller, often leaving insufficient space for wisdom teeth to grow in properly.

COMMON ISSUES WITH WISDOM TEETH

Because of limited space in the jaw, wisdom teeth frequently cause the following problems:

  • Impaction – Wisdom teeth get stuck beneath the gums or in the jawbone.
  • Crowding – They push against neighboring teeth, causing misalignment.
  • Infections – Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap bacteria, leading to infections.
  • Cavities – Difficult-to-clean wisdom teeth are prone to decay.

These complications are why dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal even before symptoms arise.

TOP REASONS DENTISTS RECOMMEND WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL

WISDOM TEETH OFTEN BECOME IMPACTED

One of the primary reasons dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal is impaction. An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when there is not enough room in the mouth for it to fully emerge.

There are different types of impacted wisdom teeth:

  • Soft tissue impaction – The tooth is covered by the gum and cannot fully emerge.
  • Partial impaction – Part of the tooth is visible, but the rest is trapped.
  • Complete impaction – The tooth remains trapped under the gum and jawbone.

Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, swelling and infection, which is why removal is often recommended even if no immediate discomfort is present.

2. WISDOM TEETH CAN CAUSE OVERCROWDING AND MISALIGNMENT

If you have had orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign® therapy, your dentist may suggest removing wisdom teeth to prevent shifting.

Because wisdom teeth emerge later in life, they often push against existing teeth, leading to:

  • Crowding of front teeth
  • Shifting of previously straightened teeth
  • Bite misalignment

To maintain the results of orthodontic treatment, many dentists and orthodontists recommend wisdom teeth extraction.

3. RISK OF WISDOM TOOTH INFECTIONS AND GUM DISEASE

When wisdom teeth partially erupt, they create pockets of space in the gums where food and bacteria can get trapped. This often leads to pericoronitis, an infection that causes:

  • Swollen, red or bleeding gums
  • Bad breath and unpleasant taste
  • Pain when chewing or swallowing

Over time, untreated infections can spread, affecting other parts of the mouth and even causing serious systemic health issues.

4. WISDOM TEETH ARE PRONE TO TOOTH DECAY AND CAVITIES

Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. Even with regular brushing and flossing, wisdom teeth are more likely to develop:

  • Cavities (tooth decay)
  • Plaque and tartar buildup
  • Gum disease

Since wisdom teeth decay faster than other teeth and can lead to painful infections, dentists recommend early removal to avoid these complications.

5. PREVENTING CYSTS AND JAW DAMAGE

In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts (fluid-filled sacs) around the tooth. If left untreated, these cysts can:

  • Damage the jawbone
  • Harm nearby teeth and roots
  • Cause chronic pain and swelling

In rare cases, cysts can develop into benign tumors, requiring more complex surgery to remove.

6. WISDOM TEETH CAN CAUSE CHRONIC PAIN AND DISCOMFORT

Even if your wisdom teeth are not impacted, they can still contribute to headaches, jaw pain and sinus pressure. Many patients experience unexplained pain in the jaw, neck or ears, which can sometimes be linked to wisdom teeth.

7. AVOIDING FUTURE COMPLICATIONS

One of the biggest reasons dentists recommend early wisdom teeth removal is prevention. Even if wisdom teeth are not causing problems now, leaving them in place increases the risk of future issues.

By removing wisdom teeth before they cause complications, you can avoid:

  • Painful emergency extractions
  • Costly dental procedures
  • Serious infections

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DO NOT REMOVE YOUR WISDOM TEETH?

While some people never experience problems with their wisdom teeth, others face serious complications if they are left untreated, including:

  • Increased risk of cavities and infections
  • Jaw pain, swelling and stiffness
  • Damage to surrounding teeth
  • Difficulties with chewing and oral hygiene

If your dentist or oral surgeon recommends wisdom teeth removal, it is best to follow their advice to avoid these potential risks.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL

If your dentist recommends wisdom tooth extraction, here is what you can expect:

  • Consultation and X-rays – Your dentist will take X-rays to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth.
  • Anesthesia Options – You may receive local anesthesia, sedation or general anesthesia.
  • Tooth Extraction – The dentist or oral surgeon will carefully remove the wisdom teeth.
  • Recovery Process – Swelling and mild discomfort are normal. Recovery takes about seven to ten days.

Your dentist will provide post-surgical care instructions, including:

  • Avoiding hard or crunchy foods
  • Keeping the area clean with saltwater rinses
  • Taking pain relievers if needed

Most people recover fully within a couple of weeks, with minimal discomfort.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

1. DOES EVERYONE NEED THEIR WISDOM TEETH REMOVED?
Not always! If wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted and properly aligned, removal may not be necessary.

2. WHEN IS THE BEST AGE TO REMOVE WISDOM TEETH?

Most dentists recommend removal between ages 17 to 25 before complications arise.

3. HOW PAINFUL IS WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL?

With proper anesthesia, the procedure itself is painless. Some swelling and discomfort occur during recovery but can be managed with pain medication.

4. CAN I KEEP MY WISDOM TEETH IF THEY ARE NOT CAUSING PAIN?
Your dentist will determine if keeping wisdom teeth is safe. However, pain is not always the first sign of a problem.

5. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HEAL AFTER WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL?
Most patients recover within seven to ten days, with full healing taking a few weeks.

CONCLUSION
Wisdom teeth removal is a common preventive measure to avoid dental complications such as impaction, infections, crowding and decay. Dentists recommend extraction to protect your overall oral health and prevent future dental issues.

If your dentist has suggested wisdom tooth extraction, schedule a consultation to discuss your options. Removing them early can save you pain, time and money in the long run!

P: 818-788-3168 [1]
W: healthysmilesdentaloffice.com [2]
E: office@healthysmilesdentaloffice.com