Reasons For Wisdom Teeth Removal

Has a recent trip to the dentist resulted in learning the news that you need to have wisdom teeth removed? If so, you're likely wondering why the dentist has come to this conclusion. The recommendation to remove these teeth is made in a few situations where they can cause problems for you if left in your mouth. Here are three reasons why it can happen to you.

Your Wisdom Teeth Are Not Fully Erupted

If your wisdom teeth grow in straight, they will erupt through your gums and fit nicely into your jaw. Your bite will be comfortable, and it won't be painful for you. Unfortunately, wisdom teeth don't typically grow in straight. This causes the teeth to not fully erupt due to growing in sideways, leading to a partial eruption of the tooth. The wisdom teeth can then grow into the rear molars next to them, which will cause damage and pain as the wisdom teeth continue to emerge.

Sometimes partial eruptions happen because you have a small jaw, and there simply isn't enough room for the wisdom teeth to grow in. A dentist may even be able to predict this problem before the wisdom teeth form.

Your Wisdom Teeth Have Not Fully Formed

It's possible that your wisdom teeth never fully form. If a tooth cannot develop a healthy root, or the enamel doesn't properly form, there will be serious problems with the tooth. The dentist may discover the tooth in an x-ray when it is completely under your gums, or evaluate the tooth if it has erupted. A tooth that is not fully formed will need to be removed due to the potential problems it will have.

Your Wisdom Teeth Are Rotting Or Infected

There is also the possibility that the wisdom teeth are rotting or have an infection due to being partially erupted. Those teeth in the back of your jaw are very hard to brush, and you may not be doing a good job of cleaning them. The placement of wisdom teeth also makes it very hard to perform a root canal to save the tooth. If there is a problem with the wisdom teeth, it is likely that the dentist will recommend the removal of the teeth.

Do you still have questions about  wisdom teeth removal? Meet with your dentist for a consultation, and they'll be able to walk you through the entire process and let you know what to expect.

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