One of the most controversial topics in the dental industry involves wisdom teeth. Is it best that they be extracted? Or should they be left alone? This debate has gone long for years, and the population seems to be divided in their answer to this issue. However, what is the truth? When is wisdom tooth removal necessary? This article will finally give an answer to this age-old question.
Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?
The answer to this question is not simple as there is a lot of gray areas when it comes to wisdom tooth removal. The truth of the matter is: No, it is not necessary to have wisdom teeth extracted. However, if a dentist foresees that the wisdom teeth will somehow cause problems and oral issues for the person, they will recommend that the teeth be removed.
Wisdom Tooth Evaluation
Before dentists can give you a definitive answer as to whether you need a wisdom tooth extraction or not, they need to evaluate you first. The first thing that dentists usually recommend is that you have an oral x ray done to determine where your wisdom teeth are. If they are growing as they should they will most likely inform you that a wisdom tooth extraction is not needed.
However, if your dentist sees your x ray results and foresees that your wisdom teeth will cause problems for you later on, this is when they will recommend that you have the wisdom teeth extracted. Even if you aren’t feeling any pain at present, your dentist may still advise you to have your wisdom teeth removed.
Pain and other symptoms you may feel are not the basis on if you need to have your wisdom teeth extracted. The main reason for the removal of wisdom teeth is because they will potentially cause oral problems later on.
What Can Be Expected From A Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Your dentist will first apply localized anesthesia to numb the area. You will not be put “under” and you can expect to be awake during the entire procedure. After the anesthesia takes effect, the surgery will only take 45 minutes or less.
After the procedure, you will be placed in the recovery room to wait for the effects of the local anesthesia to wear off. Most of the time, patients will be discharged and will be allowed to go home on the same day. However, to be safe, it is important that you find someone to drive you home after the procedure, you shouldn’t drive home on your own.
Before you leave the dental clinic, your dentist will give you a set of instructions that you should adhere to. This will be a list of precautionary instructions to ensure that your wisdom tooth extraction will heal quickly and free of infection.
Conclusion
If you have a family history of having wisdom teeth extractions, even if you may not feel pain right now, there is a chance that you may also need to have your wisdom teeth removed. Even before they grow in, it is a good idea to visit your dentist to have them evaluate your overall oral health and the status of your wisdom teeth to see if they will cause problems later on or not.
Whether you need to have your wisdom teeth extracted or if you need other dentistry services, you can come to Dental House MI. We offer preventive dentistry, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, advanced dental technology, and dental implants. Patients who need wisdom teeth removal in Waterford, come visit us today!