Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last to emerge in the human mouth, typically between ages 17 and 25. Despite their seemingly wise name, these teeth can come with complications and questions, particularly regarding whether they should be extracted.
In this blog, we’ll explore wisdom teeth and the pros and cons of wisdom teeth removal, so you can make an informed decision about this dental procedure.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that usually emerge in the late teens or early adulthood. Their primary purpose is to aid in chewing and grinding food.
However, they are now widely regarded as unnecessary and often troublesome. Commonly associated with crowding, impaction, and infection, these teeth frequently lead to more problems than benefits.
When wisdom teeth become impacted, they remain trapped beneath the gum line, causing intense pain, tooth decay, and gum disease.
To learn more about the procedure, read our page on Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Francisco, CA.
Key Takeaway
Wisdom teeth, a natural part of our dental anatomy, often cause more harm than good due to overcrowding, decay, and potential infection. The decision to extract these teeth should be made with a dental professional, considering your specific oral health and personal circumstances.
The Benefits of Removing Wisdom Teeth
There are several potential benefits to removing wisdom teeth, including:
- Prevent overcrowding: As wisdom teeth grow, they may put pressure on adjacent teeth and cause them to shift and become misaligned. By removing wisdom teeth, you can help prevent overcrowding and misalignment of neighboring teeth, thus avoiding the need for orthodontic treatment.
- Avoid tooth decay and gum disease: Wisdom teeth are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and dental floss. As a result, food particles can get trapped between the teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Removing these teeth eliminates an area where bacteria can thrive, contributing to improved dental health.
- Eliminate infection and bad breath: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause inflammation, which may lead to bad breath and infection. Removing the teeth can help you maintain fresh breath and ward off future infections.
- Prevent damage to nearby teeth: If left unchecked, impacted wisdom teeth can potentially damage adjacent teeth, particularly their roots, leading to severe discomfort and additional dental treatments.
The Disadvantages of Removing Wisdom Teeth
As with any dental surgery, wisdom tooth removal does come with some risks, such as:
- Pain and discomfort: The extraction process can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and general discomfort in the mouth and jaw that may last a few days.
- Potential risks: As with any surgery, wisdom tooth removal involves potential risks. Risks may include nerve damage, infection, dry socket (when the blood clot protecting the wound dissolves prematurely), and damage to nearby teeth.
- Recovery time: It generally takes about a week to recover from wisdom tooth extraction. Patients may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty eating during this time. Returning to a regular diet can take time.
To Remove or Not To Remove?
Choosing whether to remove wisdom teeth is a decision that should be made in consultation with a dental professional. They can assess your unique situation, discuss treatment options, and help you make an informed decision based on the benefits and risks of wisdom tooth removal.
Some benefits to getting your wisdom teeth removed at a younger age include easier surgery and a quicker recovery period. The decision to extract wisdom teeth should be based on a thorough evaluation of your oral health and personal circumstances.
Your Best Choice for Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Francisco, CA
The thought of undergoing dental surgery can be enough to make anyone anxious. The recovery process can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, leaving patients longing for a better solution.
Young Dental SF Group is your trusted dental expert for providing wisdom tooth removal in San Francisco, CA. With our experienced team and advanced techniques, we ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience for every patient. Call us today at (415) 392-8611 or complete the online form to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, removing wisdom teeth does not make the face thinner. The removal of wisdom teeth only affects the area around the mouth and jaw and does not impact overall facial structure.
The duration of a wisdom tooth extraction may vary depending on the complexity of the case. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Your dentist will provide you with an estimated time frame during your consultation.
No, removing wisdom teeth does not change the shape of your face. Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth and do not play a significant role in facial structure. Therefore, their removal will not alter the shape of your face.
In most cases, dentists can remove wisdom teeth without sedation. They use local anesthesia to numb the area around the wisdom teeth. However, some patients may opt for sedation dentistry, which can help them relax and feel more comfortable during the procedure.
We offer a few sedation options at Young Dental SF Group to ensure your comfort. Talk to your dentist about what option is best for you.
Yes, you can talk after wisdom teeth removal. However, you may experience discomfort and swelling, making speaking difficult. We recommend you rest your mouth as much as possible during recovery. Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery.
If you are searching for wisdom tooth removal near me, contact Young Dental SF Group.