The final teeth erupt in the mouth are wisdom teeth, also called third molars. Between the ages of 17 and 25, they usually make an appearance. While some wisdom teeth erupt without any issues, some may have issues that necessitate removal.
This article will examine the potential consequences of not having your wisdom teeth removed and explain why doing so is frequently advised.
What happens if you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed?
There may be negative effects and difficulties if you decide not to get your wisdom teeth removed.
Third molars, or wisdom teeth, usually erupt between 17 and 25. They frequently lack the room to fully erupt or position themselves correctly with the rest of your teeth, though. This problem is referred to as impacted wisdom teeth.
If your wisdom teeth are not removed, you could experience the following consequences:
Discomfort and Pain
The back of your mouth may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort due to impacted wisdom teeth. This may hamper your ability to eat, speak, and completely open your mouth.
Infection
Keeping the area around impacted wisdom teeth clean might be difficult because of their position towards the rear of the mouth. Gum disease, infections, and abscesses might result from this. Antibiotics or even surgical drainage may be necessary to treat infections, which can be unpleasant.
Damage to Neighboring Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can crowd, shift, and cause misalignment by pushing on nearby teeth. This may harm neighbouring teeth and cause orthodontic issues.
Growth of Cysts or Tumors
Sometimes benign tumours or cysts can develop around impacted wisdom teeth. These growths may require more involved treatment since they harm the jawbone, surrounding teeth, and nerves.
Sinus Issues
Sometimes the roots of upper wisdom teeth are situated near the sinuses. These teeth can cause sinus pain, pressure, and sinusitis if they are left untreated and develop or become infected.
Obstacles encountered during Extraction
Your wisdom teeth’s roots may grow more fully as you get older, making removal more challenging. Complications like nerve injury or jawbone fractures are made more likely by this.
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It’s crucial to remember that not everyone requires the removal of their wisdom teeth. Your wisdom teeth might not need to be extracted if they have fully erupted, are positioned correctly, and can be cleaned thoroughly.
To assess your situation and choose the best course of action, it is advised that you speak with a dentist or oral surgeon.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Prevents Impaction and Pain
- Reduces Risk of Infections
- Prevents Dental Crowding
- Minimizes Risk of Cysts and Tumors
- Prevents Decay and Cavities
- Avoids Sinus Problems
- Alleviates Chronic Pain
- Simpler Extraction in Younger Age
Cons
- Surgical Risks
- Recovery Period
- Financial Cost
- Rare Complications
- Personal Preference
What are the disadvantages of removing wisdom teeth?
One common disadvantage is the risk of complications during or after surgery. This can include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or damage to nearby teeth and structures.
However, these risks are relatively rare and can be minimized by choosing an experienced oral surgeon.
Another disadvantage is the discomfort and swelling that may occur after the procedure. This can make eating and speaking difficult for a few days or weeks until the healing process is complete.
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Additionally, removing wisdom teeth requires anesthesia, which carries its own set of risks and side effects.
Some individuals may experience adverse reactions to anesthesia, such as nausea or allergic reactions.
Is it OK to never remove wisdom teeth?
One of the main concerns with leaving wisdom teeth in place is that they can become impacted. When there isn’t enough space for these third molars to fully erupt, they can grow at an angle or get stuck beneath the gum line. This can lead to pain, infection, and damage to neighbouring teeth.
Another problem that can arise from not removing wisdom teeth is overcrowding.
These extra molars often push against existing teeth as they try to emerge, causing misalignment and shifting of the dental arches.
Furthermore, impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth are harder to clean properly.
Their position at the back of the mouth makes them more difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss, increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup and gum disease.
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What age does wisdom teeth grow?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically begin to emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties.
The exact age at which they grow can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience their wisdom teeth erupting as early as 17 or 18, while others may see them in their mid-20s.
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The growth of wisdom teeth is a natural process that occurs as part of human development. These additional molars were useful for our ancestors, who had larger jaws and needed extra chewing power.
However, with evolution and changes in human jaw structure over time, many people need more space in their mouths to accommodate these teeth.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if your wisdom teeth are not removed, it may result in several oral health issues and consequences. The hazards outweigh the advantages of preserving these third molars, including those of impacted teeth, infections, tooth movement, and jaw pain. Speaking with a dental expert to assess your circumstances and decide whether wisdom teeth extraction is required is crucial.
FAQs
What age do wisdom teeth grow?
Wisdom teeth typically begin to emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. This period is known as young adulthood.
What happens if you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed?
If you choose not to remove your wisdom teeth, there can be several potential consequences. These include overcrowding of the other teeth, misalignment of the bite, tooth decay and gum disease in hard-to-reach areas, cyst formation around impacted wisdom teeth, and discomfort or pain.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
Wisdom teeth removal is performed under anesthesia so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort and swelling may occur during recovery, but it can be managed with pain medications prescribed by your dentist.
At what age should wisdom teeth be removed?
The optimal age for wisdom teeth removal is typically between 17 and 25 when the roots are not fully developed, making the extraction process easier and reducing the risk of complications.
Can wisdom teeth cause overcrowding of other teeth?
Wisdom teeth can push against adjacent teeth, causing crowding and misalignment. Removing the wisdom teeth can prevent further shifting and preserve the alignment of your other teeth.
How long does the recovery process take after wisdom teeth removal?
The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal typically lasts about a week. You may experience swelling and discomfort during this time, but following your dentist’s post-operative instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery.