When Do You Need To Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are the teeth that erupt in the very back of your mouth. You may have between one and four wisdom teeth, or none at all. While not always mandatory, many dentists recommend having them extracted. Here are some common reasons to have them removed.
Your Teeth Are Becoming Overcrowded
A common reason to have your wisdom teeth removed is when overcrowding becomes a problem. Your mouth is already full when all your molars have erupted from the gums. Wisdom teeth are not necessary and take up extra space after your molars. Since you likely don't chew with them and they don't affect your smile or facial shape, there is no reason to keep them. Overcrowding of your teeth can eventually lead to pain in your jaw, as well as crooked teeth. If the wisdom teeth grow in pointing toward your molars, they can eventually cause your other teeth to start shifting, causing them to become crooked, and requiring orthodontic treatment.
The Wisdom Teeth Are Infected
Infections are also common with wisdom teeth, especially with tooth abscesses. A tooth abscess is a type of infection that occurs inside the tooth and deep within the roots of the teeth. You may notice a strong odor or bad taste in your mouth, along with a sore on your gum above the wisdom tooth. This is caused from the infection. The best thing to do is have the wisdom teeth pulled. It will get rid of the infection and help relieve the pain you are likely experiencing.
You Have Jaw, Head, or Ear Pain
Having pains not associated with an infection is also common with wisdom teeth. Due to the location and how they erupt, you might instead have pain in your ears, jaw, or head. Many wisdom teeth take up precious space in your mouth, leading to bite issues, which then cause jaw pain. Your head might hurt more often, or it may seem like your ears hurt, but you don't have an ear infection.
They Are Hard to Clean
Since wisdom teeth are at the very back of your mouth, they are naturally difficult to clean. If you find that you can barely fit your toothbrush back there to clean efficiently, let alone floss the teeth, you are better off having them removed. You don't want to get plaque buildup that could lead to a gum or tooth infection. This will cause pain and can affect your oral health. It is better to have them extracted now.
For tooth extractions, contact an office such as Renovo Endodontic Studio.