Wisdom Teeth: When to Keep Them—and When It’s Time for Removal

Should they stay, or should they go?

How and why can something that sounds so smart actually be so problematic for you? Yes, we’re talking about wisdom teeth. And though these teeth can provide additional support for your jaw, most people find them quite uncomfortable. That’s why so many people choose to have them removed. 

But not everyone likes the idea of tooth extraction. At a surface level, it sounds a bit intimidating, if not scary. That said, our team at Compass Dental Group does everything possible to help you feel comfortable during the procedure (it really can be quick and painless). We know you have questions about when wisdom teeth can stay and when your mouth might be telling you it’s time to take them out.

What are wisdom teeth?

Most people have four wisdom teeth, with one set on the top and one set on the bottom, at the very back of your mouth, tucked behind your second molars. Technically, this extra set of teeth is called your third molars.

While wisdom teeth are common, not everyone has them. In fact, studies show that only about 5% to 37% of people are born without these third molars. They usually begin to come in during the late teens or early 20s, which is why they’re often tied to growing up.

For some people, wisdom teeth come in just fine and settle into place without causing trouble. But for many others, there simply isn’t enough room in the mouth. When that happens, these teeth can come in at odd angles, get stuck under the gums, or crowd nearby teeth. This can lead to soreness, swelling, and even infections, which is why wisdom teeth tend to get so much attention during dental visits.

When Wisdom Teeth Can Stay

Can you keep your wisdom teeth? Yes, you absolutely can, if they are not causing you any pain or discomfort. Here are some indicators that your wisdom teeth do not require removal.

• You are able to adequately brush and floss the area
• Your teeth remain properly aligned
• Your wisdom teeth have fully erupted (impacted teeth can cause problems down the road)
• You do not have any signs of pain, crowding, or infection

So, if you meet the above criteria, your Maryville, Missouri dentist will likely tell you that everything is okay and there is no need for them to come out. 

Signs It Might Be Time for Wisdom Tooth Removal

Earlier, we mentioned that most people have their third molars removed. That’s because these teeth don’t always come in the way they should. In many cases, your mouth simply doesn’t have enough space to support them. When that happens, you may start to notice signs that something isn’t quite right, especially as far as managing your oral health is concerned.

Sometimes, the symptoms are mild at first, but they can get worse over time if left untreated. Paying attention to these changes can help you decide when it’s time to talk with your dentist about next steps.

Here are a few common indicators that mean your dentist in Maryville will suggest extraction:

• Pain or soreness in the back of your mouth
• Redness or swelling around your gums
• Infection or a bad taste that won’t go away
• Impacted teeth that are stuck under the gums
• Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth

What to Expect From the Tooth Extraction Process

We know that the whole use of the word extraction probably grates on you. And we understand why, because when we think of how extraction is used in other cases, well, it’s not pretty. But here’s the thing. Wisdom tooth removal (extraction) is not all that it is negatively cracked up to be. The process is actually relatively simple, and recovery is easier than you think.

Here’s what a simple extraction looks like.

• A quick evaluation and X-rays to map out the position of your wisdom teeth
• Numbing the area so you don’t feel pain during the procedure
• Gentle removal of the tooth, which is often faster than expected
• Gauze is placed to help control bleeding right after the procedure
• Simple aftercare instructions to support healing at home

Most patients are surprised by how manageable the process feels from start to finish.

Now, some patients require the surgical removal of their wisdom teeth. The process is still pretty simple, but there are a few more things to know. Here’s what that looks like.

• A closer look with X-rays to see how the tooth is positioned under the gums
• Numbing the area, and in some cases, sedation to help you stay relaxed
• A small opening in the gum to access the tooth
• Sectioning the tooth into smaller pieces, if needed, for easier removal
• Stitches are placed to help the area heal properly
• Clear aftercare steps, including rest, soft foods, and keeping the area clean

While it may sound more involved, many patients are surprised by how comfortable the experience can be and how quickly they start to feel better afterward.

Are your wisdom teeth giving you trouble?

If you are feeling pain in the back corners of your mouth where your third molars should be, it’s likely time to consider having them removed. And as we’ve shared, the process is quite routine and not terribly complicated. 

At Compass Dental Group, our approach to general dentistry and treating wisdom tooth pain is simple. We take you through every step to keep you comfortable and make the process as simple as possible. So, if you’re in pain, it’s time to feel better. Request a wisdom tooth removal consultation today.