Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Examined?
Posted on 7/1/2025 by Elite Dental of Natick |
 Most people have four wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, located at the back of their mouths. These teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, but sometimes they don't come in at all, or they only partially erupt. This can lead to various oral health problems, which is why it's important to have your wisdom teeth examined by a dentist.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are often removed for several reasons:
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Impaction: When wisdom teeth don't fully erupt, they can become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum tissue or bone. This can lead to pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. |
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Crowding: If there isn't enough space in your mouth for wisdom teeth to erupt properly, they can crowd other teeth, causing misalignment and bite problems. |
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Decay and gum disease: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, making them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. |
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Cysts and tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can develop cysts or tumors that can damage the jawbone and surrounding tissues. |
Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal
While not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, there are several benefits to having them extracted:
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Prevents future problems: Removing wisdom teeth before they cause problems can help you avoid pain, infection, and other complications. |
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Protects your oral health: Extraction can help keep your other teeth healthy and prevent misalignment. |
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Improves oral hygiene: It's easier to clean your teeth after wisdom teeth removal, reducing your risk of decay and gum disease. |
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Maintains a healthy jawbone: Removing impacted wisdom teeth can prevent damage to the jawbone and surrounding tissues. |
The Wisdom Teeth Examination Process
During a wisdom teeth examination, your dentist will:
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Review your medical and dental history: This helps them understand your overall health and any potential risks associated with wisdom teeth removal. |
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Perform a clinical examination: They will examine your mouth, teeth, and gums to assess the position and condition of your wisdom teeth. |
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Take X-rays: X-rays provide a detailed view of your wisdom teeth, including their position, angulation, and proximity to nerves and other structures. |
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Discuss treatment options: Based on the examination and X-rays, your dentist will discuss whether or not wisdom teeth removal is recommended and explain the procedure in detail. |
Making an Informed Decision
The decision to remove wisdom teeth is a personal one that should be made in consultation with your dentist. They will consider your individual situation, including your age, overall health, and the condition of your wisdom teeth, to determine the best course of action for you.
By having your wisdom teeth examined, you can take a proactive approach to your oral health and prevent potential problems down the road. Remember, prevention dentistry is always preferable to treating dental issues later on. |
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