Why Experts Say No to Wisdom Teeth Removal?
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Third molars, or wisdom teeth, are a common topic of conversation among dental professionals. Historically, the standard procedure was to remove these teeth as soon as they became problematic or began to exhibit warning signs of future issues. However, recent studies and shifting perspectives among experts indicate that getting rid of wisdom teeth may not always be advantageous or necessary. This blog will examine how wisdom teeth removal has evolved and why some professionals in Phoenix, Arizona, may advise not removing your wisdom teeth.
A Better Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Let’s first explore the nature of these teeth and their significance to oral health to comprehend why specialists recommend not removing your wisdom teeth. The final set of molars, wisdom teeth, erupts between 17 and 25. These teeth were crucial for chewing hard and coarse foods in the ancestors of humans. However, they are no longer as important for our overall dental function due to modern diets and improved oral hygiene.
What is the Function of Wisdom Teeth?
Researchers have found that wisdom teeth may have a practical use in some people. According to some studies, not removing your wisdom teeth can improve chewing effectiveness, assisting with the digestion and breakdown of food particles. Furthermore, wisdom teeth can support neighboring teeth, possibly preventing the crowding and shifting that were once thought to be inevitable.
Are Wisdom Teeth Really “Useless”?
Contrary to popular opinion, wisdom teeth aren’t just items from the past. Recent research suggests that these third molars might have benefits beyond the occasional discomfort they cause.
The following are some potential advantages of not removing your wisdom teeth in Phoenix, Arizona:
- Help with chewing. Wisdom teeth can aid in effective chewing and the breakdown of fibrous foods.
- The facial structure supports. In some circumstances, wisdom teeth can support facial structures, preventing sagging or an unflattering appearance.
- Backup molars. Wisdom teeth can take over and perform their masticatory functions in the event of tooth loss or damage to other molars.
What are the Problems Associated with Wisdom Teeth?
Although wisdom teeth can erupt without problems, they frequently do so for various reasons. Impaction, in which the teeth do not fully erupt or grow in the proper alignment, is a frequent problem. Impacted wisdom teeth can result in discomfort, inflammation, and infections. Additionally, these teeth may necessitate orthodontic treatment because they may cause crowding and misalignment of neighboring teeth. Furthermore, wisdom teeth may be challenging to clean due to their positioning and shape, which raises the possibility of tooth decay and gum disease.
What Happens If You Don’t Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Potential consequences of not removing your wisdom teeth in Phoenix, Arizona, include crowding, infections, decay, gum disease, shifting of neighboring teeth, the growth of cysts or tumors, and impaction. It’s important to remember that not everyone will experience these problems, and routine dental exams are essential for keeping an eye on wisdom teeth and preserving oral health.
Can You Keep Your Wisdom Teeth If They Don’t Hurt?
If your wisdom teeth are not giving you any pain or discomfort, you can keep them. Not removing your wisdom teeth is not all bad, particularly if they are healthy, in the right place, and have enough room to erupt fully without affecting neighboring teeth. To monitor their health and make sure there are no underlying problems, regular dental exams and X-rays are vital. If you have a specific situation, your dentist can assess it and advise you on whether it is risk-free to keep your wisdom teeth.
What are the Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth?
Contrary to popular belief, not all wisdom teeth need to be removed; if they are healthy and in the right place, there are good reasons to keep them. The maintenance of the original tooth structure is one important advantage. Retaining wisdom teeth prevents the needless teeth extraction necessary for chewing and general oral health.
Proper dental alignment with wisdom teeth can help avoid shifts and potential bite issues. Additionally, not removing your wisdom teeth and avoiding surgical procedures can spare people from the potential risks and complications that come with them.
Changing Perspectives on Wisdom Teeth Removal
New research and a better understanding of the risks and benefits of the proceeds support the change in expert opinions regarding wisdom teeth removal. Surgery-related risks like bleeding, infection, and harm to nearby structures exist even though surgical extraction is generally safe.
Furthermore, not removing your wisdom teeth has shown that a sizable number of wisdom teeth may never cause an individual any issues throughout their lifetime. As a result, many dental professionals now support a more conservative and unique approach to managing wisdom teeth.
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What are the Alternatives for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
What alternatives are there for people who want to keep their third molars after we’ve discussed the potential advantages and questioned the necessity of wisdom tooth extraction? Let’s look at some proactive methods for managing wisdom teeth.
Regular Monitoring to Watching Out for Wisdom Teeth
Experts in Phoenix, Arizona, now advise routine monitoring of wisdom teeth rather than choosing an immediate extraction. Your dentist can evaluate the growth and alignment of your third molars through routine dental exams and X-rays. This enables a case-by-case assessment of the need for extraction based on specific facts.
Improved Oral Hygiene
Prioritizing good oral hygiene is essential to avoid complications if you are not removing your wisdom teeth in Phoenix, Arizona. You can keep your wisdom teeth healthy and avoid decay or gum disease by brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash regularly. To get to those difficult-to-reach areas, your dentist might also advise using specialized cleaning tools.
Individualized Wisdom Teeth Management
Because every person’s oral anatomy and circumstances are different, it is best to remove wisdom teeth only if it makes the most sense for them. The angle of eruption, the possibility of impaction, the state of dental health, and symptoms should all be considered when choosing the most appropriate course of action. Working with a dental expert will ensure your wisdom teeth are customized to your unique needs.
What Are Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled?
Recognizing the signs that you may need wisdom teeth removal in Phoenix is essential for your oral health. These signs include:
- Constant and frequent pain in the back of the mouth
- Swelling and sensitivity in the gums around the back of the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth
- Infection or inflammation of the gums near the wisdom tooth.
- Cyst formation around wisdom teeth.
- Crowding, misalignment, or displacement of other teeth.
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Cavity and decay of wisdom teeth
- Sinus problems related to upper wisdom teeth.
How Painful is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom tooth extraction pain can vary significantly from person to person. Several factors affect the discomfort level, including the procedure’s complexity, the individual’s pain tolerance, and any previous infections or complications.
- Procedure Complexity: How the wisdom tooth erupts greatly impacts the pain during tooth extraction because how it erupts determines the procedure’s complexity. If the wisdom tooth is impacted or not fully erupted, the procedure may be more complicated and can lead to more pain during and after the procedure. Conversely, tooth extraction is often more accessible and less painful if the teeth erupt naturally.
- Pain Tolerance: Individual pain tolerance also plays an important role. Some people may tolerate this amount of pain and manage it with over-the-counter pain relievers. In contrast, others may experience more severe pain that requires a more potent pain reliever.
- Post-Operative Care: Proper post-operative care and following the dentist’s instructions regarding oral hygiene and the use of medications can significantly reduce discomfort.
- Duration of Pain. Generally, the most pain is at its maximum for the first few days after tooth extraction and usually decreases significantly within a week. But it may take a few weeks to heal fully.
- Complications. If you have complications, such as a dry socket or infection, the pain can become more severe and last longer. Following the dentist’s instructions is essential to avoid complications.
- Anesthesia and Sedation: During the procedure itself, you will usually not feel any pain and may only experience some discomfort as patients are given local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia.
What Factors Can Influence the Decision of Not Removing Your Wisdom Teeth?
Several factors come into play when deciding whether wisdom teeth should be removed or left in place. The severity of any problems or symptoms brought on by wisdom teeth must be considered. The teeth may need to be extracted if they are seriously painful, infected, or harming nearby teeth.
Another consideration is age, as younger people generally recover from surgery more quickly. Making a choice should also consider the person’s general oral health and the dentist’s or oral surgeon’s professional advice.
Preventive measures and appropriate home care are crucial for preserving optimal oral health, regardless of whether you keep or remove your wisdom teeth. Around wisdom teeth, regular brushing, flossing, and antimicrobial mouthwashes can help prevent decay and gum disease. A healthy diet that includes nutrients crucial for oral health, like calcium and vitamin D, while avoiding excessive sugar is also advantageous. Regular dental exams allow dentists to keep an eye on the health of wisdom teeth and quickly address any issues.
Concerns and Misconceptions Wisdom Teeth Removal
Many worries and misunderstandings surround the choice of not removing your wisdom teeth. The discomfort and pain brought on by impacted or erupting wisdom teeth are a common source of concern. However, pain can be effectively reduced using pain management strategies like over-the-counter painkillers and local anesthesia during procedures.
Additionally, studies have shown that while complications can occasionally occur, the risks associated with not removing your wisdom teeth are typically low, especially when routine monitoring and maintenance occur. Furthermore, worries about wisdom teeth harming nearby teeth are frequently unfounded because good dental hygiene can reduce such risks.
Best Wisdom Teeth Removal Services in Ahwatukee, Phoenix, Arizona
Are you prepared to say goodbye to problematic wisdom teeth? Bid discomfort farewell, and welcome to a cheery grin! Dr. Foroughi of Atrium Dental Clinic provides individualized consultations and top-notch wisdom teeth removal services in Phoenix, Arizona. Experience the knowledge of our skilled professionals as they carefully and precisely lead you through the process.
Stop letting those bothersome teeth hold you back. Call (480) 940-4321 or complete our online appointment form to leap to dental freedom. Accept a future devoid of suffering and difficulties. To start your journey to a healthier, happier mouth, get in touch with us right away.
Conclusion
The change in professional opinions and new research has questioned the conventional method of routinely removing wisdom teeth. While some wisdom teeth may become problematic and need to be removed, there are good reasons to leave them in place if they are healthy and in the right place.
The choice of not removing your wisdom teeth should be based on a thorough evaluation of your circumstances, including symptoms, age, oral health, and expert advice. You can make decisions supporting your long-term oral health and well-being by adopting alternative strategies and implementing preventive measures.
FAQs
Does keeping wisdom teeth mean I’ll never have any problems with them?
While some people may never experience issues with their wisdom teeth, regular monitoring and upkeep are necessary to spot and treat potential problems.
Are there any risks associated with wisdom teeth removal?
Although removing a wisdom tooth is generally risk-free, some possible dangers include bleeding, infection, and harm to nearby structures. When choosing to be removed, these risks should be taken into account.
Can wisdom teeth impact the alignment of other teeth?
Wisdom teeth can indeed cause crowding and misalignment of nearby teeth. Retaining wisdom teeth, however, may not always significantly affect dental alignment.
Is it possible to manage wisdom teeth without surgery?
Yes, alternatives to immediate surgical removal of wisdom teeth can be used, including routine monitoring, minimally invasive procedures, and customized treatment plans.
Should I consult a dental professional before deciding on wisdom teeth removal?
Yes, it is wise to speak with a dental expert who can evaluate your situation, offer tailored advice, and assist you in deciding how to handle your wisdom teeth.
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11 Comments
When having wisdom teeth removed.(all four) my energy lowerd.. and lowers your jaw line..
When having all four wisdom teeth removed, it’s common to experience a temporary decrease in energy levels. Additionally, the swelling and discomfort from the procedure can sometimes give the appearance of a slightly lower jawline due to the swelling and inflammation. However, these effects are usually temporary, and as you heal, your energy levels will return to normal, and any changes in jawline appearance are generally not permanent. It’s essential to follow your dentist or oral surgeon’s post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery.
I was initially on the fence about wisdom teeth removal, but your expertise helped me see it in a positive light. Thank you for explaining the ‘why not’!
Few months back I had visited dentist for toothache.They said it was WISDOM TOOTH, surgery is needed to Remove and they gave me some toothpaste, tablets and ointment like metrogyl. I had no pain after using those. After few months the pain started at same area. Is it complicated? Surgery is needed?
If the pain has returned in the same area after initial treatment, it could indicate that the underlying issue with the wisdom tooth has not been resolved. Wisdom tooth pain can sometimes be managed temporarily with medication, but if the tooth is impacted or causing other dental issues, surgery to remove the tooth may be recommended to prevent further complications. It’s best to consult with your dentist or an oral surgeon for a comprehensive evaluation to determine the need for surgery based on the current condition of the tooth and surrounding area.
If you have a decayed wisdom tooth and it is probably touching your nerves can the dentist just remove the old filling and put in new filling without removing wisdom tooth.
Thank you for your question! If a wisdom tooth is decayed and close to the nerves, it can be tricky. A dentist might try to remove the old filling and place a new one, but this depends on the tooth’s condition.
If the decay is too deep or touching the nerves, it may be better to remove the tooth. Keeping the tooth might cause more problems later.
We invite you to come to our office for a consultation. Our team can evaluate the tooth and help you find the best solution. If you have more questions, please let us know!
My son (age 18) has 3 impacted wisdom teeth recommended for removal. They are not bothering him & he’s never had a medical procedure so he is reluctant. Additionally his 2nd molars on top never erupted (news to me) and one is angled into the roots of his 1st molar. The 2nd molars on bottom are partially erupted and still partially covered by some gum. Oral surgeon recommended removing all 7 teeth (4-2nd molars and 3 wisdom) and Dentist (and mom) think more conservative (3 wisdom teeth and contour bottom gum, watch the 2nd molars but likely wont come in w/o more ortho work). We are worried to do any of it as his teeth/gums aren’t bothering him. My father in law (age 78) just had a wisdom tooth removed and breezed right through it. I really don’t know what to do but worry about complications for an elective procedure.
Thank you for sharing your concerns. It’s understandable to worry about your son’s dental health. If his wisdom teeth and other molars are not causing pain, it may be okay to wait. The oral surgeon recommends removing all 7 teeth, but a more conservative approach could also work.
Watching the second molars is a good idea. They may not erupt without orthodontic work, but monitoring them is important. Since your father-in-law had a good experience, it shows that recovery can be smooth.
If you’d like, we invite you to come to our office for a consultation. Our team can discuss all options and help find the best plan for your son’s needs. If you have more questions, feel free to ask!
I would leave alone if having no trouble, also might be an idea to have a different dentist unless dentist is think same as you. Don’t fix something if not broken. If he ever had bother in the future he can decide then if he wants teeth removed, if its not broke don’t fix is the attitude I would have.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! While the “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” approach can apply to many situations, wisdom teeth are a bit different. Even if they aren’t causing trouble now, they can lead to hidden problems later, such as crowding other teeth, causing pain from impaction, or even developing cysts that can harm the jawbone. Dentists often recommend removal based on signs from X-rays or exams that suggest future issues might arise. If the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, aligned, and easy to clean, leaving them might be fine, but regular monitoring is essential. It’s always a good idea to discuss these concerns with a trusted dentist to ensure the best long-term care!