The Potential Risks of Not Removing Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often bring mixed feelings. Some people have them removed early without issues, while others may never need extraction. But what really happens if you don’t remove your wisdom teeth? Understanding the potential risks and complications can help you make an informed decision about your oral health. At Today’s Dentistry, our dentist in Ashland, OR, Dr. James Burneson, provides comprehensive dental care and guidance to ensure your smile remains healthy and strong. If you’re unsure of whether or not you should remove your wisdom teeth, contact our Ashland dental office by calling (541) 482-7771.
Why Choose Our Ashland Dentist for Wisdom Tooth Removal
Dr. James Burneson and the team at Today’s Dentistry provide personalized dental care for patients of all ages. Their focus on comfort, preventive care, and patient education ensures that every patient receives the best possible treatment. Whether you need a routine checkup, wisdom tooth evaluation, or complex dental procedures, this Ashland dentist office is dedicated to maintaining healthy, beautiful smiles.
One satisfied patient, Theo K., shared:
- “The team at Today’s Dentistry is the greatest on Earth. I am very anxious about going to the dentist and Dr. B. and the whole team go above and beyond to create a space that feels safe and chill and shame free. Big shout out to Maria and her gentle touch and kind bedside manner. 100000/10 experience.”
Choosing the best dentist near you is essential for long-term oral health. Today’s Dentistry combines modern technology with compassionate care, making them a trusted choice for families in Ashland, OR.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most adults have four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. While some people experience no problems, many others develop issues due to limited space in the jaw. Wisdom teeth can grow at odd angles, partially erupt, or remain trapped beneath the gums, leading to discomfort and oral health problems.
Your dentist in Ashland, OR, can help monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and recommend whether removal is necessary. Regular checkups at an Ashland dentist office allow for early detection of potential problems, preventing more serious complications in the future.
Common Problems From Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to grow properly, they are considered impacted. Impacted teeth can cause a variety of problems, including:
Pain and Discomfort
One of the most common signs that your wisdom teeth may need removal is pain. Impacted teeth can push against surrounding teeth, causing pressure and discomfort. This pain may be persistent or come and go, often increasing when chewing or biting down.
If you are experiencing pain in the back of your mouth, visiting the best dentist near you, such as Dr. James Burneson at Today’s Dentistry in Ashland, OR, is crucial. Timely intervention can prevent the pain from worsening and affecting your overall dental health.
Infection and Gum Disease
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets in the gums where bacteria can accumulate. These pockets can lead to infections known as pericoronitis. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and bad breath. In severe cases, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues and teeth, posing a serious health risk.
An Ashland dentist office like Today’s Dentistry can evaluate your wisdom teeth and treat infections early. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings help reduce the risk of gum disease associated with impacted wisdom teeth.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can push against neighboring molars, causing damage to the enamel, increasing the risk of decay, and sometimes leading to structural damage. This pressure can also affect the alignment of your other teeth, potentially undoing the benefits of previous orthodontic work.
A trusted Ashland dentist, such as Dr. James Burneson, can assess the positioning of your wisdom teeth through X-rays and determine if removal is necessary to protect your adjacent teeth and overall oral health.
Cysts and Tumors
Though less common, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors. These fluid-filled sacs can damage the jawbone, nerves, and surrounding teeth if left untreated. In rare cases, these cysts can become cancerous, which is why monitoring the health of your wisdom teeth is important.
Your dentist in Ashland, OR, can detect these issues early during routine exams and imaging. Early removal of problematic wisdom teeth can prevent these serious complications.
Difficulty Cleaning
Wisdom teeth often appear at the very back of the mouth, making them difficult to reach and clean properly. This can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Plaque and food particles can accumulate around partially erupted teeth, leading to infections and decay.
Visiting an Ashland dentist regularly ensures that even hard-to-reach areas are monitored and treated. Professional advice and preventive care help maintain a healthy mouth and prevent issues from developing around wisdom teeth.
The Benefits of Removing Wisdom Teeth
Even if your wisdom teeth are not currently causing problems, your dentist may suggest removal as a preventive measure. Benefits include:
- Reduced risk of infection: Removing impacted teeth eliminates areas where bacteria can accumulate.
- Prevention of damage to other teeth: Extraction protects adjacent teeth from shifting or decay.
- Alleviation of pain and discomfort: Removing problematic teeth relieves pressure and soreness.
- Improved oral hygiene: Without hard-to-reach molars, it is easier to maintain a clean mouth.
These benefits make wisdom tooth removal a common recommendation for many young adults and even some older patients.
Why Some People Keep Their Wisdom Teeth
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Some individuals have enough space in their jaws for these molars to grow without causing pain or other issues. In these cases, your Ashland dentist may recommend monitoring the teeth rather than extracting them.
Routine dental visits allow your dentist in Ashland, OR, to track the growth and positioning of your wisdom teeth. If problems develop later, removal can be scheduled at a convenient time before complications worsen.
Schedule a Wisdom Teeth Evaluation with Our Ashland Dentist
Deciding whether to remove your wisdom teeth is an important decision that should be made with guidance from a qualified Ashland dentist. Ignoring impacted or problematic wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, damage to surrounding teeth, and other serious complications. Regular dental checkups at an Ashland dentist office, such as Today’s Dentistry, allow for early detection and timely intervention.
If you are unsure about your wisdom teeth or experiencing any discomfort, schedule an appointment with our Ashland, OR dentist by calling (541) 482-7771. Taking proactive steps today can prevent future problems and ensure your smile remains healthy for years to come.