Meaningful Motives: 3 Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Are you a young adult between the ages of about 17 and 24 years old, and has your jaw been feeling more sore than usual lately? If so, your wisdom teeth may be struggling to push through your gumline.

These third molars arrive years after your other adult teeth have already erupted, and though ancient humans may have evolved them out of necessity, today they aren’t required for survival. Plus, they tend to cause problems, so they are removed more often than not. Continue reading to learn about 3 reasons your dentist might recommend having your wisdom teeth extracted!

Reason #1: Alleviate Aches

It’s believed that our ancestors developed wisdom teeth to help them survive on a tough diet of uncooked roots, rough meats, nuts, and seeds that could harm their smiles. If any chompers were damaged or broken in their youth, these late arrivals ensured they could continue biting and chewing into adulthood.

However, over time, human jaws became smaller and rounder, leaving less room for wisdom teeth when they arrive. As a result, today, they tend to grow at inappropriate angles or don’t fully clear your gums, which can cause severe discomfort until they are extracted.

Reason #2: Avoid Overcrowding

Overcrowding is another common issue that occurs when these last molars erupt. They’re notorious for pushing neighboring teeth out of alignment in their struggle to clear your gumline.

Unfortunately, if your teeth are not in their proper places, your enamel might wear down prematurely or unevenly. This can increase the likelihood of developing cavities, disease, or injuries, and can also cause additional throbbing. Therefore, your dentist will likely recommend removing your wisdom teeth if there isn’t enough room in your jaw for them to fit comfortably.  

Reason #3: Prevent Potential Impaction

If your molar is pushing through at a strange angle or doesn’t have enough space, it might be unable to erupt from your connective tissues fully. If it becomes trapped in your jaw, it might develop an infection or a cyst that can harm your dental health.

Not only that, but if one of your wisdom teeth only partially clears your gums, it’s harder to brush and floss all sides to keep it clean. That means you’re more prone to oral issues, like cavities, gum disease, or other injuries.

Removing wisdom teeth is such a standard procedure that many consider it a rite of passage from childhood into adulthood, but if you’re unsure why or whether you need one, the best way to find out is to consult your dentist directly!

About the Practice       

Patients at Anderson Dental benefit from a team of providers eager to help them build and maintain the healthiest, most beautiful versions of their smiles. They collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services under one roof, including wisdom tooth extractions, to meet all your needs. Then, they use state-of-the-art equipment and offer multiple sedation options to help you feel comfortable throughout your procedure. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (201) 546-7435.