9 Reasons Why Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Extracted

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are a fascinating yet often troublesome aspect of dental development. These late-blooming teeth typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. While some individuals may experience an uneventful eruption, others may encounter impacted wisdom teeth, leading to various complications. An impacted wisdom tooth needs to be extracted because of various reasons and issues. 

Understand these underlying causes, potential complications, and the crucial role extraction plays in maintaining optimal oral health.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Extracted?

Wisdom teeth often require extraction for the following reasons that revolve around preserving overall oral health –

1. Sensitivity and Pain

Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth and nerves, leading to significant discomfort and pain. This pain can radiate throughout the jaw, affecting daily activities such as eating, speaking, and even basic mouth movements.

2. Repeated Infection

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets of space where bacteria thrive, leading to recurrent infections. These infections can cause pain, swelling and even contribute to a general feeling of unwellness.

3. Fluid-Filled Sac (Cysts)

Cysts can develop around impacted wisdom teeth, causing potential damage to the surrounding bone and teeth. Left untreated, these cysts can lead to more extensive health issues and complications.

4. Tumors

Rarely, but tumors can develop in the tissue surrounding impacted wisdom teeth. While these instances are uncommon, the potential for tumor growth adds to the reasons for extraction.

5. Damage to Nearby Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth may push against neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment, crowding, or damage to otherwise healthy teeth. This misalignment can compromise the overall bite and oral function.

6. Gum Disease

Difficulty in properly cleaning impacted wisdom teeth can lead to gum inflammation and increased susceptibility to gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can have systemic effects beyond oral health.

7. Extensive Tooth Decay

The location and angle of impacted wisdom teeth can make them difficult to clean effectively, rendering them prone to decay. This decay can spread to neighboring teeth and compromise overall oral health.

8. Damage to the Jaw

Sometimes, wisdom teeth removal is necessary because an impacted tooth can erode the jawbone over time, causing structural damage and potentially leading to more complex dental issues.

9. Sinus Problems

The upper wisdom teeth are positioned near the sinuses, and their impaction can lead to sinus pain, pressure, and infections.

Each reason indicates the critical need for wisdom teeth extraction when impaction occurs. With timely removal of impacted teeth, individuals can safeguard their oral health, prevent complications, and ensure a comfortable and pain-free dental future. Many insurances cover wisdom tooth removal making it an affordable procedure. 

Experience Lasting Oral Comfort with Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Living with the pain and discomfort caused by impacted wisdom teeth can be frustrating and distressing. At Pinnacle Dental Plan, we understand your struggle. Our best Dentist in Plano, TX, offers seamless and pain-free wisdom tooth extraction to help you restore your oral health. Contact us to Book Your appointment and get a personalized consultation.