Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, are vestiges of our cave man days. Having the extra molars to chew their extra-coarse diets came was very handy when trying to survive. As time has passed, modern man has progressed to a much softer diet. We can survive with a smaller jaw. This means that many times there is not enough room for the wisdom teeth to erupt. Quite often, they are lying in an odd position called an impaction. If there is enough room for the wisdom teeth to come in and be properly cleaned, then it is best to leave them as is. The old “spare tire” theory comes into play. It may be needed later on in life due to loss of other molars. However, if the wisdom teeth are impacted, they can form cysts that can enlarge and destroy jaw bone, or they can push up against the second molar and damage some of its root. If the wisdom tooth is partially impacted, then it can be a constant source of gum infections.
They do not always need to be removed, but leaving them in may pose the risk of: Decay or erosion of adjacent teeth – A wisdom tooth that is leaning up against another tooth may create a trap for food debris and bacteria – the perfect recipe for decay of either or both teeth. Also, pressure from the wisdom tooth can cause erosion (resorption) of the 2nd molar tooth. This can be disastrous to the 2nd molar since the decay often moves slowly and is found at advanced stages. Repeated gum infections around partially exposed wisdom teeth- When these teeth are partly exposed to the oral environment, food debris and bacteria will be able to collect in areas that are impossible to clean. Localized infections or abcesses can happen over and over again around the gums or even deeper in the bone around the tooth. Facial pain symptoms – An unerupted tooth can put pressure on the crown or the roots of the adjacent tooth. This can cause periodic episodes of pain that may be localized, more vague, or
