Wisdom teeth extraction is a popular procedure designed to promote better dental health. However, many people are uncertain if the removal is necessary. The wisdom teeth are the last molars to grow and usually grow during early adulthood. Sometimes, these teeth do not emerge, perhaps due to evolutionary factors. Unfortunately, when they crop up, they can cause more harm than good. The risk of complications makes it necessary to consider the need for extraction. If you are concerned about the condition of your wisdom teeth, use these tips to understand the importance of removal.

Consider Impaction

The most common problem in wisdom teeth health is impaction. Impaction occurs when these molars do not emerge normally or develop correctly. This issue occurs due to the lack of space in the jawbone for healthy growth. If a wisdom tooth is impacted, it might remain concealed beneath the gum. In other cases, it will only emerge partially or fail to grow upwards. This form of growth comes with a risk of complications like tumours and cysts because of the strained tissues around the tooth. Moreover, the pain due to an impacted molar can be significant, causing a decline in quality of life. Surgical extraction of the tooth will restore your oral health.

Evaluate Hygiene

Keeping wisdom teeth clean can be challenging because of their position in the oral cavity. Often, these molars are difficult to reach and brush properly as part of daily oral hygiene. As a result, food debris will accumulate and plaque will form. Moreover, it is difficult to effectively floss around wisdom teeth. If you are experiencing a problem with cleaning these teeth, extraction could be beneficial. You can have your dentist check on the current state of the molars. If there are signs of plaque and tartar, it could indicate poor hygiene. Your dentist will advise on the best course of action if extraction is not ideal for you.

Monitor for Infections

Wisdom teeth are associated with more instances of infections than other oral structures. These infections can be linked to both impaction and poor hygiene. Usually, an infection comes in the form of gum disease. The tissues around the molars will experience inflammation, and you will notice redness and feel pain, especially when brushing. Bleeding could also occur, and you might have prolonged tenderness. In some cases, an unpleasant smell will emanate from the infected areas as the problem escalates. Consult your dentist on extraction to prevent complications like periodontitis and tooth loss.  

For more information, contact a dentist.

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