3 Really Good Reasons to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth

They say ignorance and bliss, and after your dentist informed you that you would need a wisdom tooth extraction, maybe you started wondering whether that’s true. What you do know for sure is that you definitely don’t want to go to this appointment!

It might be hard to imagine, but after all your troublesome teeth are pulled, you’ll likely feel much better, and the future you will be thankful you preserved their oral health. Er, your oral health. Keep reading for three really good reasons you should have your wisdom teeth removed!

1.     You’re In Pain

This is usually how teens and adults alike find out that there’s something not quite right with their wisdom teeth. These “third molars” often grow at odd angles or become trapped below the gumline, which exerts uncomfortable pressure on your gums, jaw, and any surrounding teeth. After your dentist gently extracts your wisdom teeth, you’ll notice near-immediate relief.

2.     There’s No Room for Third Molars

No one’s entirely sure why humans grow wisdom teeth, but the prevailing theory is that the mouth used to be large enough to support them. The invention and widespread use of eating utensils, however, caused the jaw to shift forward over generations, creating smaller oral cavities. This may or may not be true, but professionals do know for a fact that most modern mouths simply don’t have enough room for third molars.

3.     Impact is Imminent

If you don’t have the space to grow healthy wisdom teeth, what tends to happen is they get trapped below the gumline (called impaction) – or they push aside existing pearly whites to make room. Impacted teeth have little choice but to press on the jawbone, while erupted ones cause dental damage by colliding into their neighbors. Either way, you’d be in it for some significant orthodontic or restoration work!

Is There Ever a Time Wisdom Teeth Don’t Need Extraction?

Actually, yes. There are some individuals who, for some reason or another, are able to grow in their wisdom teeth without harming their overall oral health. The only way to know for sure whether you fall into this camp or not, though, is to visit your dentist. If, after thorough examination and X-rays, they tell you that you need a wisdom tooth extraction, then you should probably get a wisdom tooth extraction!

About the Practice

Dr. Aaron Springhetti and Dr. Jenna Oberley make a top-notch team here in Carmel. As our resident tooth extraction expert, Dr. Springhetti is who you’ll meet with to discuss all matters wisdom tooth removal. He’ll put his advanced training in oral surgery to use to help you feel comfortable and confident about your treatment, as well as to keep you well-informed about the process. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call Dr. Springhetti and Dr. Oberley’s office at 317-875-7645.