Wisdom teeth—also known as third molars—are the last set of teeth to develop, typically emerging in your late teens or early twenties. For many people, the question isn’t if they’ll get wisdom teeth, but whether they need to have them removed. The answer isn’t always straightforward: not everyone needs their wisdom teeth taken out, but many do.
When Wisdom Teeth Don’t Need Removal
In some cases, wisdom teeth grow in normally and function just like your other molars. If they are fully erupted, properly aligned, and easy to clean, they may not need to be removed at all.
Your dentist will evaluate whether your wisdom teeth are healthy, free of decay, and not causing problems with neighboring teeth. If everything looks good, they may simply recommend monitoring them over time.
Common Reasons for Removal
More often, wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to come in properly. This can lead to a condition called impaction, where the tooth becomes trapped beneath the gums or grows at an angle.
Impacted teeth can cause pain, swelling, and damage to nearby teeth. They also increase the risk of infection, including conditions like pericoronitis, which occurs when bacteria become trapped around a partially erupted tooth.
Other reasons for removal include:
- Crowding that affects the alignment of your other teeth.
- Difficulty cleaning the area, leading to cavities or gum disease.
- Cysts or damage to surrounding bone.
Preventive Removal: Is It Necessary?
Some dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth before they cause problems, especially if X-rays show they’re likely to become impacted. Younger patients often heal more quickly and experience fewer complications, which is why early removal is sometimes suggested.
However, preventive extraction isn’t always required. If your wisdom teeth are not causing issues and are unlikely to in the future, your dentist may recommend leaving them in place and monitoring them with regular checkups.
What Happens If You Keep Them?
If you keep your wisdom teeth, it’s important to maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend regular dental visits. Because these teeth are located at the back of your mouth, they can be harder to clean, making them more prone to decay and gum problems.
Your dentist may take periodic X-rays to ensure they remain healthy and properly positioned.
Wisdom teeth don’t always have to come out, but they often do due to lack of space or potential complications. The best approach depends on your individual situation, including how your teeth are positioned and your overall oral health. If you’re unsure what to do, a dental evaluation is the best place to start.
About the Author
Dr. Eduart Shkurti is the founder of ED Family Dental. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California before completing a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center. Today, Dr. Shkurti stays current in the dental field through memberships in the American Dental Association, the New York Dental Society, and the Astoria County Dental Society. If your wisdom teeth need extracting, book online with us or call our Astoria office at (718) 806-1662.