Wisdom teeth, which are the four adult molars that typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties, do not always cause problems. Some people have enough room in their jaw to accommodate them comfortably, and in these cases, extraction is not necessary. However, for many patients, wisdom teeth do cause issues, and removing them is the safest and most sensible course of action.
When We Recommend Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Your dentist may recommend wisdom tooth extraction if they are:
- Impacted, meaning they are unable to fully emerge and are trapped beneath the gum or against neighbouring teeth
- Growing at an angle that is pushing against or damaging the adjacent molar
- Partially erupted, creating an area of gum tissue that traps food debris and bacteria and leads to repeated infection
- Developing decay or gum disease that is difficult or impossible to treat due to its position
- Associated with a cyst or other abnormality that requires attention
On the other hand, wisdom teeth that have fully emerged, are properly aligned, and are easy to clean may not need to be removed at all. Regular monitoring through routine check-ups and x-rays allows your dentist to keep a close eye on your development over time and act promptly if the situation changes.
It is also worth noting that not everyone develops all four wisdom teeth, and some people never develop them at all. Every patient's situation is different, which is why a personalised assessment is so important. Contact us on (07) 3278 6111 to book an appointment and put your mind at ease.