When Do Wisdom Teeth Require Extraction?

Your wisdom teeth are the last molars to come through your gums, and about 85% of people need them removed. Over time, the shape of the human jaw and the kinds of food we eat have changed, making our wisdom teeth unnecessary and often problematic. 

At Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi in Flowood, Mississippi, Dr. Michael Nichols prefers to evaluate the position of wisdom teeth in patients in their teens. 

Through a physical exam and X-rays, Dr. Nichols can predict the likelihood of issues based on the position of wisdom teeth before they come through the gums. Early intervention leads to optimal outcomes for patients. 

Here are some common reasons people need their wisdom teeth extracted. 

It’s crowded! 

On average, adults have space for 28 teeth, the number you have before your wisdom teeth come in. Sometimes, your wisdom teeth push your other teeth out of alignment. Sometimes, they can’t erupt from your gums. 

Either way, it’s best to have wisdom teeth extracted before problems begin. 

Pericoronitis

If your wisdom teeth can’t come through your gums, you can develop a localized infection called pericoronitis. The gum tissue around your wisdom tooth becomes irritated and infected, causing swelling and pain. You may even have trouble chewing and swallowing. 

Cysts

Even if there’s no infection, you may get a cyst, when a small sac in your jawbone fills with fluid. Cysts are dangerous because, over time, they can destroy bone tissue and even your other teeth. Removing your wisdom teeth prevents cysts from developing to begin with. 

Decay

It can be hard to clean wisdom teeth; they’re so far back in your mouth and usually a tight fit. You may struggle to reach them, and it can be hard to get floss between them. 

That means it’s easier for plaque to build up around and between wisdom teeth, which can cause bacteria to proliferate and lead to decay. 

Age can make a difference

For a few reasons, it’s best to have your wisdom teeth extracted in your teens or early 20s. The roots of your wisdom teeth aren’t formed completely at that age, and your bones are softer than they’ll be later. 

After age 25, there’s a greater risk of complications from wisdom teeth extraction, and patients tend to heal more slowly. 

The procedure

You need someone with you on the day of your procedure because you’re under anesthesia. Dr. Nichols and his staff ensure you’re as comfortable as possible during and after your surgery. 

We provide thorough aftercare instructions, which can include pain medication. We suggest a restricted diet at first, then you can slowly build up to regular foods. 

Although you may have heard some scary stories about extraction, it’s a generally well-tolerated procedure that leads to better long-term oral health. 

Questions? 

If you’d like to have your or your teen’s wisdom teeth evaluated or have questions about extraction, call Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi today to schedule an appointment. Dr. Nichols is happy to discuss your situation.