Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of the mouth that typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people may experience no problems with their wisdom teeth, others may face a host of dental issues that necessitate extraction.
However, recent research suggests that there may be some benefits to keeping your wisdom teeth. In this article, we’ll explore these benefits and why they might make you think twice before scheduling an extraction.
Benefits of keeping wisdom teeth
Wisdom Teeth Help with Chewing and Digestion
Wisdom teeth serve an important purpose in our digestion process. They help us grind and break down tough foods, such as meat and raw vegetables, which can be difficult to chew with just our front teeth. When our diet consists of soft or processed foods, we don’t need our wisdom teeth as much. However, if we eat tougher foods, our wisdom teeth become essential to proper digestion.
Keeping Wisdom Teeth Can Help Maintain the Shape of Your Face
As we age, our teeth tend to shift, which can cause changes in the shape of our face. When we lose teeth, the surrounding teeth can start to shift into the empty space, leading to an uneven appearance. Wisdom teeth can help maintain the proper alignment of our teeth, which can help us maintain the shape of our face.
Wisdom Teeth Can Prevent Crowding
One of the most common reasons for extracting wisdom teeth is to prevent overcrowding. However, recent research suggests that keeping wisdom teeth can actually prevent crowding in some cases. When wisdom teeth emerge, they can push other teeth forward, which can create more space for teeth to grow. In some cases, this can actually prevent crowding.
Keeping Wisdom Teeth Can Be Useful in the Event of Tooth Loss
If you lose a tooth due to injury or decay, your wisdom teeth can be used as a replacement. Because wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, they may not be as visible as other teeth, making them an ideal choice for replacement. This can help you avoid more invasive procedures, such as dental implants.
Wisdom Teeth Can Be Removed Later If Necessary
If you do decide to keep your wisdom teeth, but later experience problems such as pain or infection, they can still be removed at a later time. It’s important to monitor your wisdom teeth closely and schedule regular dental checkups to ensure they are healthy and not causing any problems.
Should you remove your wisdom teeth?
While there are many reasons why you may need to have your wisdom teeth extracted, it’s important to consider the potential benefits of keeping your wisdom teeth.
From aiding digestion to preventing crowding and maintaining the shape of your face, there are many reasons why you may want to keep your wisdom teeth.
However, it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine if keeping your wisdom teeth is the right choice for you.
You may be able to keep your wisdom teeth if they are:
- Healthy
- Fully erupted
- Positioned correctly
- Able to be cleaned properly
Alternatives to removing your wisdom teeth
While wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, it’s not always necessary. In fact, there are several alternatives to wisdom tooth extraction that can help alleviate pain and other dental problems. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most effective alternatives to wisdom tooth extraction.
Watchful Waiting
In some cases, it may be best to take a wait-and-see approach to wisdom teeth. If they are not causing any problems and are not impacted, your dentist may recommend simply monitoring them to ensure they are not causing any damage to adjacent teeth or gums. Regular checkups and X-rays can help your dentist keep an eye on your wisdom teeth.
Medications
If your wisdom teeth are causing pain or discomfort, your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger pain medication. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to help fight infection.
Oral Rinses
If you have gum disease or are experiencing inflammation around your wisdom teeth, your dentist may recommend an oral rinse to help reduce inflammation and promote healing. An oral rinse can also help keep your mouth clean and free of harmful bacteria.
Orthodontic Treatment
If your wisdom teeth are causing crowding or shifting of your other teeth, orthodontic treatment may be recommended. Braces or aligners can help move your teeth back into their proper position, reducing the need for wisdom tooth extraction.
Partial Extraction
In some cases, it may be possible to remove only a portion of a wisdom tooth, rather than the entire tooth. This is known as a partial extraction or coronectomy. This procedure can help reduce the risk of nerve damage and other complications associated with full extraction.
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