Many dentists recommend removing your wisdom teeth (third molars) to prevent pain, discomfort, or disruption to your oral health. Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common dental surgical procedures, but it causes many patients to have questions.

It’s natural to have concerns regarding any dental treatment, and the best outcomes stem from a thorough conversation with your dentist. However, there are several common questions most patients want answers to.

1. What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last four adult molars to grow in our mouths. They are located in the back of your mouth on both sides of the top and bottom jaw. It is believed that our early ancestors needed these teeth because their diets consisted of coarser foods, like nuts and leaves.

Our diets have changed dramatically in recent centuries, making us evolve to the point where we no longer need them. Some patients have all four wisdom teeth grow in, while others don’t have any.

2. When Do Wisdom Teeth Come In?

Most people see their wisdom teeth come in between ages 17 and 25. However, they begin forming in your jaw around age seven and can be detected on an X-ray. Some patients have impacted wisdom teeth, which means they never grow through the gum tissue.

3. Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?

Most people don’t have enough space in their mouths to allow their third molars to erupt correctly, making an extraction necessary. When they are impacted, you are at a greater risk of developing:

• Cavities on the wisdom tooth
• Cavities on the back of second molars
• Infection of the gums around your third molars
• Cysts and other issues around the impacted teeth

When teeth erupt properly and can easily be cleaned, removing them is unnecessary.

4. What Causes Wisdom Teeth Pain?

Wisdom tooth pain occurs during eruption because it puts pressure on your mouth. This pressure can cause jaw pain and headaches. If they have erupted with minimal space, they may be difficult to clean and develop a cavity.

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain in the jaw, swelling, and discomfort when chewing or biting. This pain may also come from gum disease. Because of their location, wisdom teeth are more challenging to clean, which leads to excessive bacteria.

5. Are There Complications After a Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom teeth removal is a surgical procedure. Any surgery comes with a risk of infection and damage to the nerves and adjacent tissues.

However, the most common complication is a dry socket. It occurs when a clot doesn’t form in the open socket or when a clot becomes dislodged. Dry sockets produce a foul smell and can be painful. If you experience a dry socket, you must seek immediate dental treatment.

Get More Answers to Your Wisdom Teeth Questions

If you have questions about your third molars, Pinnacle Dentistry is here to help. Our Colorado dentists are experienced in wisdom removal and are ready to help eliminate your discomfort. Call our office today to schedule your consultation.