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A great deal of misinformation about wisdom teeth is available on the Internet. Countless rumors and false claims that can be downright harmful seem to be everywhere. Some claim that removing wisdom teeth from teenagers is a mistake, while others argue that wisdom teeth should not be removed at all. These unfounded claims would certainly be news to all the patients we treat who experience serious pain from their wisdom teeth. Here’s what you need to know.

There are a small number of people who do not have wisdom teeth at all. However, most people do have wisdom teeth and the majority of those people do need to get their wisdom teeth removed. Choosing not to have your wisdom teeth removed can have serious consequences. If wisdom teeth are impacted (meaning trapped in the jaw), cysts can develop around them that can damage the nerves and weaken the jaws. Lastly, wisdom teeth often cause inflamed gums around them and the teeth in front of them. Bacteria incubate in these gum pockets, which greatly increase the incidence of cavities and periodontal disease.

All about the timing

Timing of wisdom teeth removal is case by case and depends on the person, but ideally the sooner the better and almost everyone who needs them out should have their wisdom teeth removed between the ages of 16 and 35. After the age of 35 post- operative complications increase. Your dentist can use x-rays to advise you as to the best time to take care of it for you.

If you’d like to learn more about your wisdom teeth and safeguarding your dental health, give our friendly staff at Southeast Family Dental a call on 317-359-8000.