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Wisdom teeth are often more trouble than they’re worth. If you’ve been feeling some jaw discomfort, noticing soreness in the back of your mouth, or experiencing swollen gums, you might be wondering if it’s time to part ways with these extra teeth.
The truth is, these teeth can create all kinds of problems, but not everyone needs to have them removed. By the time you finish reading this blog, you’ll have a better idea of if you should have them removed.
Table of Contents
- Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
- Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Need to Go
- When to See an Oral Surgeon
- The Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure: Step-by-Step
- Is It Time to Say Goodbye to Your Wisdom Teeth?
You should say goodbye to your wisdom teeth when they start causing pain, swelling, damage to nearby teeth, or infection. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to consult an oral surgeon for removal.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
You have probably wondered why we have wisdom teeth if all they do is cause trouble.
These teeth are actually remnants from our ancient ancestors. Long ago, early humans had a much tougher diet, full of raw meats and fibrous plants that required extra chewing power. These third molars helped our ancestors break down those tough foods.
But as human diets changed, so did our jaws. Today, we have smaller jaw sizes, which often don’t leave enough space for these extra teeth to come in properly. Due to our smaller jaw size, 88% of the population no longer has enough space in their mouth for their wisdom teeth.
While they were once necessary for survival, these teeth are now more of a liability, leading to oral health issues like overcrowding, tooth decay, and infections.
| 💡Did you know? Some people never develop wisdom teeth at all! Studies show that molar agenesis (the absence of wisdom teeth) affects up to 35% of the population. |
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Need to Go
Do I need my wisdom teeth removed? Here are some key signs that removal might be necessary:
1. Pain or Discomfort
If you are feeling consistent pain in the back of your mouth or jaw, it could be a sign that your teeth are trying to erupt. Impacted wisdom teeth, which do not fully break through the gums, can cause serious discomfort and lead to wisdom tooth pain.
2. Swollen Gums and Soreness
Swollen, tender gums near your wisdom teeth are another red flag 🚩. The inflammation can make it hard to chew, talk, or even open your mouth comfortably. This swelling can advance to a serious infection. If you’ve noticed gum soreness or redness, it’s time to have your teeth evaluated.
3. Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
If food and bacteria are getting trapped around your partially erupted wisdom teeth, you might notice bad breath or a weird taste in your mouth. This often signals an infection so it’s important to see your dentist right away!
4. Damage to Neighboring Teeth
Sometimes, there’s simply not enough room for your wisdom teeth, which can push against your other teeth. This crowding can cause damage to neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment, tooth decay, and gum disease if not addressed. Impacted wisdom teeth can also develop cysts and tumors which can damage the adjacent teeth and destroy the jaw bone.
When to See an Oral Surgeon
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it is time to book a consultation with an oral surgeon. A dental examination and dental X-rays will reveal whether your wisdom teeth are impacted or likely to cause issues.
Most people get their wisdom teeth removed between their late teens and early twenties, but this can vary depending on factors like the development of your teeth and your jaw size. In general, it is best to have a consultation and screening X-ray no later than 16 or 17 years of age, so the oral surgeon can determine the best course of action for you.
The Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure: Step-by-Step
Once you’ve been evaluated and removal is recommended, here’s what you can expect during your wisdom tooth removal surgery:
- Consultation and examination: Your oral surgeon will go over the X-rays and discuss whether all four wisdom teeth need to be removed or just some. This is the time to ask questions and address any concerns.
- Anesthesia: On the day of the procedure, you’ll be given anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during the surgery. Depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level, you may receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia.
- Removal: The oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gums if the tooth is impacted and gently extract the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Closing the site: Once the tooth is removed, the surgeon may place a few stitches to help the healing process. You’ll receive clear instructions on how to care for the extraction site.
- Aftercare instructions: Before you head home, you will be given surgical instructions for managing any pain or swelling, along with tips for a smooth recovery. This includes what foods to eat, how to avoid dislodging the blood clot, and when to schedule a follow-up.
Recovery and Aftercare
Aftercare is just as important as the procedure itself. Most people experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days after surgery. Here’s how you can make your recovery as smooth as possible:
- Stick to soft foods: After surgery, avoid tough foods like raw vegetables or meats that require heavy chewing. Instead, opt for soft, easy-to-eat foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soup. Over time, you’ll gradually be able to transition back to your regular diet.
- Take it easy: Rest is important after surgery. You should plan to take at least a couple of days off to let your body heal. Avoid strenuous activities, and keep your head elevated to minimize swelling.
- Manage pain and swelling: Ice packs can help reduce swelling during the first 48 hours, and over-the-counter pain medications can keep discomfort at bay. Your oral surgeon may also prescribe painkillers; always take them as directed. Stretch your mouth open and massage the cheek muscles on the side of the face to prevent the muscles from becoming stiff and painful.
- Avoid straws: It is important to avoid using straws or sucking motions, which can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful condition known as dry socket.
- Watch for complications: If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection like fever or pus, reach out to your oral surgeon immediately. Proper aftercare will help prevent complications and speed up your recovery.
Is It Time to Say Goodbye to Your Wisdom Teeth?
If you’re dealing with wisdom tooth pain, swollen gums, or damage to neighboring teeth, it’s time to consult with an oral surgeon. Wisdom teeth can cause a range of problems, from infections to misalignment to cysts and tumors, so it’s best to address the issue before it worsens.
We ensure the process is as smooth as possible—from your initial consultation to recovery. We’ll work with you to determine the best plan for your wisdom teeth and keep your oral health in check.
If you suspect your wisdom teeth are causing issues, don’t wait for them to become a bigger problem. Schedule a consultation with us in Boulder, CO, and we’ll make sure your path to a pain-free smile is as easy as possible.
Call (303) 444-2255 to book a consultation or complete the online inquiry form. If you are in Colorado and would like to visit our oral surgeons office in Boulder, stop in and say hello—we are located at 1420 28th St, Boulder CO.Still have more questions? Read: 10 FAQs Questions about Wisdom Teeth.
