Wisdom tooth removal is the norm rather than the exception nowadays, but it leaves many people wondering why the procedure is needed in the first place. After all, dentists typically recommend the treatment before patients experience any discomfort. The absence of pain does not necessarily mean removal is not needed, though. There are a variety of situations which would indicate wisdom tooth removal. 

Delaying lower wisdom tooth extractions may increase your risk of permanent nerve damage resulting in numbness to the lips, gums, teeth, chin, and tongue.  It is best to remove wisdom teeth when 3/4 – 7/8 of the root is formed.  Once the root is totally formed, you risk for permanent nerve damage may increase.

Who Needs Wisdom Tooth Removal?

People Who’ve Had Extensive Orthodontic Work

If you invested thousands of dollars in orthodontic care to correct crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, your dentist would probably recommend tooth extraction before the molars erupt. If you allow them to break through, you may run the risk of crowding in your mouth and a disrupted bite, forcing you to pursue additional orthodontic work.  

Those With Inflamed Gum Tissue

If you have sensitive gums, you may be more prone to infections. Since impacted wisdom teeth can make you even more vulnerable to infections and cysts in the gum tissue, your dentist may recommend removal before these problems arise and before the molars push their way up.

People Who Suffer From Sinus Issues

Wisdom teeth can be close to your sinuses and may worsen sinus issues during their eruption, especially if they become impacted. To prevent more congestion, pain, and sinus pressure, your dentist may recommend removal as soon as possible.

Those With Damaged or Missing Teeth

Although restorative dentistry has come a long way in recent years, teeth that have been repaired will never be as strong as their natural counterparts. If you already have a lot of fillings or dental implants, removing your wisdom teeth will reduce the risk of developing additional oral health issues like further damage or decay.  When decay does occur it may affect your good tooth, the one you want to save.

People Who Experience a Painful Eruption

If you decided not to take a preventative approach to wisdom tooth removal but now your molars are causing serious pain and discomfort as a result, surgery will provide the relief you need.

If you think wisdom tooth removal is in your best interests, turn to Lyle C. Yanagihara, DDS, MS in Honolulu, HI. Their staff is dedicated to continuing their training and staying up to date on the latest technologies to perform services like teeth removal and jaw surgery You can learn more about the procedures this oral surgeon provides by visiting the website. To schedule a surgical consultation, call (808) 973-1433.