5 reasons to remove wisdom teeth?

I am sure most have experienced toothy problems with wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth generally erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, at an age where people are presumably wiser than as a child- hence the name.

Teeth that erupt in an upright and functional position often don’t need to be removed. However, here are some reasons why you should contemplate their removal.

1. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, thereby preventing adequate oral hygiene, it’s often best to have them removed. 
2. Wisdom teeth also may need to be removed because they are painful, decayed or are damaging the teeth or roots nearby. Soreness around your wisdom tooth and pain in your jaw, ear or the side of your face can all be symptoms of infection. In severe, untreated cases, the spreading infection may cause facial swelling and compromise your airway, restricting your ability to breathe and swallow, which is a true medical emergency.
3. Sometimes, the wisdom teeth might need removal for orthodontic needs either Invisalign or braces where your dentist needs to make space for movement of other teeth.
4. Wisdom teeth are not the only reasons for the teeth becoming crooked. Your dentist or orthodontist should be able to help guide you with this regard and advise on the removal of the wisdom teeth.
5. On rare occasions, wisdom teeth could be causing problems without being symptomatic. Dental radiographs (X-rays) can be helpful to check for issues with wisdom teeth.

Some tooth extractions can be done in the office of a general dentist under local anesthetic with a choice of happy gas or under twilight sedation. However, an oral surgeon will be required to remove wisdom teeth that are more complicated to extract, which can be done at a hospital setting under general anaesthetic.

The cost of the procedure will vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. The practice has numerous payment plans (which you can find on our website robinafamilydental.com.au) which can be catered to your individual needs.

And no, removal of wisdom teeth will not cause any loss of intelligence!!