Wisdom Tooth Removal Prevents Long-Term Health Problems

It is estimated that between 80 and 90 percent of people have their wisdom teeth removed, for one reason or another. While there isn’t current data on that exact number, most dental sources agree that a large sector of the population faces wisdom teeth removal in their lives. When considering and researching possible complications of wisdom teeth eruptions, you will encounter numerous reasons to get yours removed, such as sideways growth when there is not enough space in the mouth. 

What many people don’t know is that wisdom teeth that appear healthy by somewhat normal growth, can still cause long-term problems that can impact your health. 

Upon consultation, our Carrington general dentist may recommend wisdom teeth extractions. We will speak towards the lifelong effects of wisdom teeth in a crowded mouth and the potential complications of putting off your wisdom teeth removal. 

The Effects of Overcrowding Can Add Up Over Time

When new teeth grow in, they shift the balance that your existing teeth have established. Even if the shift is not visible physically, the new pressure put on your back molars can erode enamel, make it difficult to floss, and cause discomfort such as headaches and jaw pain.

As with anything that is under stress for a long time, your teeth become more and more likely to crack or break the longer they are overcrowded. Removing wisdom teeth will relieve added pressure and reduce the likelihood of an injury.

If you’re unable to floss effectively, or if you lose enamel because of increased pressure and grinding, then the likelihood of cavities increases. At some point, all of these effects compound to put your existing teeth in danger.

Wisdom Teeth Can Partially Erupt and Gather Bacteria

In some cases, you can clearly tell that a wisdom tooth has not erupted. Whether that tooth has erupted partially, or is covered beneath the gums, it can cause physical discomfort and make it difficult to brush and floss away bacteria that can increase the risk of tooth decay. When wisdom teeth do not erupt, it is likely that they will need to be removed to avoid hidden bacteria doing damage below the surface of your gums. 

It’s Difficult to Monitor for Signs of Decay On Your Own

Outside of routine visits, how do you know you need to go to the dentist? You may be in pain, however, it may be that something does not look right. Maybe a cavity, or some discoloration is what concerns you. When your wisdom teeth are far out of view, it may not be easy to see that something is going wrong, which can make it difficult to prevent infection and inflammation with just your toothbrush. 

We Remove Wisdom Teeth at Carrington Square Dental

As your trusted dental care partners, we are committed to keeping your teeth healthy and will recommend procedures and keep your oral health in mind throughout your lifetime. If wisdom tooth removal is the best way to protect your long-term dental and oral health, we can walk you through what the procedure looks like and make accommodations to ensure you’re comfortable during the process. 

Ready to schedule your consultation? Call 704-610-5635 or book online today.