Wisdom

How Do You Know If You Need to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled?

Most people get their third molars, or wisdom teeth, between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, they fit well and don't cause any trouble. Others may feel pain, experience crowding, or even develop infections.

Knowing the signs and available treatments can help you make a better decision about your oral health.

This article is for people starting to feel discomfort or have questions about their wisdom teeth.

What Are Wisdom Teeth, and Why Are They Important?

Your wisdom teeth are the last molars to grow in the back corners of your mouth. While they were useful to early humans for chewing tough foods, today they often don’t have enough space to grow properly.

This lack of space can lead to issues such as:

· Pain or swelling in the back of your mouth

· Difficulty opening your mouth

· Bleeding or tender gums

· Cysts or damage to neighboring teeth

Do You Always Have to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Taken Out?

Not always. Removal is most likely necessary if:

· They are impacted (stuck under the gum or bone)

· They are growing at an angle and pushing on nearby teeth

· You have infection, swelling, or persistent pain

· X-rays show crowding or possible damage to other molars

· They are difficult to clean, raising the risk of decay or gum issues

However, if your wisdom teeth:

· Are fully erupted

· Have enough space

· Are healthy and functional

· Are easy to clean

...your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend leaving them in place and simply monitoring them regularly.

What Will Happen If You Don’t Remove Troublesome Wisdom Teeth?

Leaving problematic wisdom teeth untreated can lead to:

· Tooth decay or gum disease

· Damage to nearby teeth

· Jaw pain or stiffness

· Cysts or benign tumors

· Chronic bad breath due to trapped bacteria

Even if you have no symptoms, it’s a good idea to get a consultation for early detection.

It Can Be Easier Than You Think to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Out

Modern wisdom tooth extraction is designed to be less painful and easier to recover from. Thanks to 3D imaging and CT-guided technology, procedures are now more precise and recovery times are shorter.

Most extractions take less than an hour, and full recovery happens within a few days with proper aftercare.

Common Myths About Wisdom Teeth

Myth 1: Everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth pulled.
→ Not true. Only those at risk or with complications may need them removed.

Myth 2: No pain means no problem.
→ Also false. Impacted or misaligned teeth can silently cause damage.

Myth 3: It hurts and takes a long time to heal.
→ Thanks to modern techniques, healing is now faster and easier, especially when caught early.

Your Next Step: Do Something, Not Nothing

If you're unsure or beginning to notice symptoms, it's always best to get a professional opinion. A complete checkup with digital imaging and expert advice will help you determine what’s best for your dental health.

Set Up an Appointment Today

Don’t let pain or uncertainty hold you back. Whether your wisdom teeth need removal or just monitoring, a qualified dental professional can guide you.

Call now to schedule your consultation.
Take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.