Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of molars that usually show up in your late teens or early twenties.
Even though they help with chewing, they can cause problems like getting stuck or growing in the wrong way.
That’s where the removal of wisdom teeth comes in – a common dental procedure recommended by dentists to deal with different oral health issues and avoid potential problems.
In this blog post, we’ll look into the many benefits of removing wisdom teeth, explaining how this regular dental practice helps keep your overall oral health in check and stops future dental problems.
Here are the top 5 benefits of removing wisdom teeth:
- Pain Relief
- Reduced Risk of Infection
- Reduced Headaches
- Elimination of Chronic Bad Breath
- Prevention of TMD
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Benefit 1: Pain Relief
Getting rid of wisdom teeth is a big help when it comes to getting relief from ongoing pain. Wisdom teeth cause trouble when there isn’t enough space for them to grow properly, and this can lead to a lot of pressure on nearby teeth and tissues.
It can result in sharp pain, tenderness, and even headaches. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that if you’re already feeling pain from your wisdom teeth, getting them taken out can quickly make you feel better and improve your overall oral health.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth cause trouble because they come in at an angle, pushing into the gum or the neighboring tooth, as explained by the Better Health Channel. This can be the main reason for the pain.
Wisdom teeth that end up getting stuck or don’t come in properly are more likely to become inflamed and infected, making the pain even more intense. Removing these problematic teeth is like addressing the main issue at its source, providing immediate relief.
Wisdom tooth extraction is usually done under anesthesia, making it a pretty pain-free experience during and after the surgery. People often say that the discomfort they had because of their wisdom teeth vanishes after removal, leaving them feeling much better overall.
Taking care of the pain early on by removing wisdom teeth not only brings immediate relief but also sets you up for better oral health in the long run, as suggested by the Cleveland Clinic.
Benefit 2: Prevention of Crowding
When your wisdom teeth start coming in, they often run into a problem because there’s not enough room in your jaw. This can lead to crowding, which is when there’s not sufficient space for your permanent teeth to grow properly, as explained by New Mouth.
Abbadent Dental and Implants says that taking out your wisdom teeth can help with the pain caused by them crowding or growing in the wrong way.
Moreover, crowded teeth don’t just impact the way your smile looks; they also influence its overall aesthetic appeal. Taking a proactive approach by removing wisdom teeth contributes to maintaining a straighter, more aligned smile.
Crowded teeth can cause biting problems and uneven tooth wear. Therefore, wisdom tooth extraction eliminates crowding potential, preserves natural alignment, promotes optimal oral health, and prevents misaligned bite complications.
Benefit 3: Reduced Risk of Infection
Impacted wisdom teeth are at risk of infection, potentially leading to serious oral health issues if not addressed. The limited spaces around partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth create challenges for thorough cleaning, providing a favorable environment for bacterial growth.
This bacterial overgrowth can result in infections that cause pain, swelling, and general discomfort. As explained by Healthline, a tooth infection or cavity occurs when an excess of bacteria creates holes in the hard enamel layer.
Early removal of wisdom teeth significantly reduces the risk of infections spreading to other parts of the mouth and jaw. Additionally, infected wisdom teeth may contribute to conditions like pericoronitis, where the gum tissue around a partially erupted tooth becomes inflamed.
Wisdom tooth extraction not only eliminates the source of infection but also prevents the recurrence of such issues, ensuring overall oral health is safeguarded.
Benefit 4: Improved Oral Hygiene
The removal of wisdom teeth makes it easier for people to keep their mouths clean and healthy, an idea supported by Magnum Clinic.
Wisdom teeth, when impacted or misaligned, can create tight spaces that are challenging to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss.
This difficulty in cleaning may lead to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
By extracting wisdom teeth, individuals can eliminate these hard-to-reach areas, facilitating more effective brushing and flossing routines.
Benefit 5: Prevention of Cysts
Taking out wisdom teeth is essential in preventing the formation of cysts in the jawbone—fluid-filled sacs that can grow and harm the jawbone over time.
These cysts have the potential to cause pain and swelling, and, in severe cases, compromise the structural integrity of the jaw.
Removing wisdom teeth early helps individuals eliminate the risk of cyst formation and protect the health of their jawbone.
Furthermore, preventing cysts through wisdom tooth removal is a proactive measure to avoid more extensive surgical procedures in the future.
Benefit 6: Reduced Headaches
Persistent headaches often accompany impacted wisdom teeth due to jaw tension and inflammation, as mentioned by Bright Smile Dental Powell. These headaches can intensify after chewing and may occur independently of toothache.
The removal of wisdom teeth offers relief from this chronic pain source, alleviating headaches and enhancing overall quality of life.
The noticeable reduction in headaches following wisdom tooth extraction provides individuals with a more comfortable and pain-free daily experience.
Moreover, addressing the root cause of headaches through the removal of impacted wisdom teeth may lead to a reduced need for pain medications.
This contributes to a healthier lifestyle, as individuals can potentially rely less on such medications for headache relief.
Benefit 7: Prevention of TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorders)
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause pain, clicking sounds, and limited jaw movement. One common cause of TMJ disorder, as described by Commonwealth Oral and Facial Surgery, is retaining wisdom teeth.
Getting rid of wisdom teeth can prevent the onset of TMJ disorders by removing the source of stress on the jaw joint.
This proactive approach helps maintain the balance and functionality of the TMJ, reducing the risk of disorders that can affect oral and facial comfort.
Additionally, preventing TMJ disorders through wisdom tooth extraction can ease symptoms like jaw pain and headaches associated with TMJ dysfunction.
Benefit 8: Prevention of Sinus Issues
Leaving upper wisdom teeth untreated can result in sinus-related problems. The roots of these molars are close to the sinus cavity, and if they grow or become impacted, they can exert pressure on the sinuses, causing pain and congestion.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a preventive measure that helps avoid sinus issues by removing the source of pressure and potential complications. This proactive approach contributes to the well-being of the sinus cavity.
Furthermore, preventing sinus problems through wisdom tooth removal can ease symptoms such as sinus headaches and facial pain.
Individuals who undergo extraction often experience relief from sinus-related discomfort, improving their overall quality of life.
Benefit 9: Elimination of Chronic Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath, known as halitosis, can stem from infections or decay related to impacted wisdom teeth.
The challenge of cleaning around these molars allows the buildup of bacteria and debris, contributing to unpleasant breath odor.
Fortunately, wisdom tooth removal provides a solution by eliminating the source of infection and decay. This not only addresses chronic bad breath but also promotes a fresher breath.
The positive change extends beyond oral health, positively impacting personal interactions and enhancing social confidence.
Research from A Plus Dental emphasizes that bad breath is more than just a hygiene issue; it can act as a social confidence killer, potentially affecting relationships and social life.
Therefore, maintaining fresh breath is crucial not only for oral health but also for confidence in social situations.
Benefit 10: Prevention of Shifting Teeth
The emergence of wisdom teeth, especially if there is limited space in the jaw, can contribute to the shifting of adjacent teeth.
This shifting can disrupt the natural alignment of the dental arch, leading to bite issues and potential cosmetic concerns.
Wisdom tooth removal helps prevent the shifting of teeth by eliminating the pressure and overcrowding caused by the presence of these molars.
Furthermore, preventing the shifting of teeth through wisdom tooth extraction contributes to the stability of the entire dental arch.
Maintaining proper dental alignment is essential for bite function, oral health, and the prevention of complications such as uneven wear on tooth surfaces.
Wisdom tooth removal serves as a proactive measure to preserve the natural alignment of teeth and prevent potential issues associated with shifting.
Removing Wisdom Teeth Benefits FAQs
1. Is it beneficial to remove wisdom teeth?
Yes, removing wisdom teeth can be beneficial in preventing potential issues such as impaction, pain, infections, and overcrowding.
2. Is it luck to remove wisdom teeth?
The removal of wisdom teeth is not associated with luck. It is a routine dental procedure done for oral health reasons.
3. Why do experts now say not to remove your wisdom teeth?
There is no widespread consensus against wisdom tooth removal among dental experts. Recommendations may vary based on individual cases.
4. What are the side effects of getting your wisdom teeth removed?
Common side effects include swelling, pain, bruising, and difficulty opening the mouth. Serious complications are rare.
5. Does removing wisdom teeth affect face shape?
Wisdom teeth removal typically does not affect face shape. Any changes are usually minimal and not noticeable.
6. Does wisdom teeth removal affect the jawline?
Wisdom teeth removal generally does not impact the jawline.
7. Should I get 2 or 4 wisdom teeth removed?
The decision to remove 2 or 4 wisdom teeth depends on factors such as their condition and the dentist’s recommendation.
8. How long does wisdom teeth recovery take?
Recovery can take about 1-2 weeks, but individual experiences may vary.
9. Can I brush my teeth after wisdom teeth removal?
You can usually resume gentle tooth brushing after wisdom teeth removal, but follow your dentist’s instructions.
10. Can you talk after wisdom teeth removal?
Yes, you can talk after wisdom teeth removal. There might be some discomfort, but it shouldn’t prevent normal speech.
11. Should I get all 4 wisdom teeth removed at once?
Getting all 4 wisdom teeth removed at once is common and may reduce overall recovery time.
12. Why is it called wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are so named because they typically emerge in early adulthood, considered the “age of wisdom.”
13. What are the first signs of wisdom teeth coming in?
Signs include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty opening the mouth.
14. How painful is wisdom tooth extraction?
Pain during wisdom tooth extraction is usually managed with local anesthesia. Post-surgery discomfort can be managed with prescribed medications.
15. Does removing wisdom teeth make the face thinner?
Wisdom teeth removal typically does not make the face thinner.
16. Which is more painful, a root canal, or wisdom tooth extraction?
Pain perception varies, but both procedures are typically managed well with anesthesia. Neither should be excessively painful.
17. What is the most painful part of wisdom teeth removal?
The extraction itself is not typically painful due to anesthesia. Post-surgery, swelling, and discomfort may occur.
18. Which is worse, upper or lower wisdom teeth?
Neither upper nor lower wisdom teeth removal is inherently worse. It depends on the individual case.
19. Do top or bottom wisdom teeth heal faster?
Healing time for top and bottom wisdom teeth removal is generally similar.
20. What is the fastest way to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Follow post-operative care instructions, rest, and avoid strenuous activities for a quicker recovery.
21. What happens if food gets in the wisdom tooth hole?
Rinsing the area gently with warm salt water can help remove food particles. Avoid poking the area with objects.
22. What does a healthy wisdom tooth hole look like?
A healthy wisdom tooth hole appears clean, without excessive redness, swelling, or pus.
23. What happens to the hole after tooth extraction?
The hole gradually fills with a blood clot, which develops into soft tissue, eventually healing and closing.
24. What is the white stuff on my wisdom teeth?
The white stuff on wisdom teeth could be plaque or debris. Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent it.
25. What is the white stuff in my wisdom teeth removal?
White stuff may indicate healing tissue or debris. Consult your dentist if concerned about post-removal changes.
26. How do I know my socket is healing?
Signs of healing include reduced swelling, pain, and the development of pink, healthy tissue. Follow up with your dentist for assurance.
Resources Consulted
- Verywell Health
- VC Dental – Tooth Anatomy Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica – Molar
- ScienceDirect – Molar Tooth
- North Texas Oral Surgery – Wisdom Teeth Cause TMJ Disorder
- Winchester Dental – TMJ Disorders & Wisdom Teeth Extractions
- PubMed Central – Wisdom Teeth Extraction and TMJ Disorders
- ScienceDirect – Mandibular Third Molar
- PubMed – Factors Influencing Impaction of Mandibular Third Molars