Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth generally cause problems when they erupt partially through the gum. Below are the most common reasons for removing wisdom teeth. 1. Tooth decay Saliva, bacteria and food particles can collect around an impacted wisdom tooth, causing it, or the next tooth to decay. It is very difficult to remove such decay. Pain and infection will usually follow. 2. Gum infection When a wisdom tooth is partially erupted, food and bacteria collect under the gum causing a local infection. This may result in bad breath, pain, swelling and the inability to open your mouth fully. The infection can spread to involve the cheek and neck. Once the initial episode occurs, each subsequent attack becomes more frequent and more severe. 3. Pressure pain Pain may also come from the pressure of the erupting wisdom tooth against other teeth. In some cases this pressure may cause the erosion of these teeth. 4. Orthodontic reasons Many younger patients have had prolonged orthodontic treatment to straighten te
