Posted on 2/6/2023 by Widner Elite Oral Surgery and Dental Implants
About half of all Americans have wisdom teeth, and about 90% of those Americans choose to have them removed. However, just because you can have your wisdom teeth removed doesn't mean you should. Here are some pointers about when you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, and when you can leave them alone.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
A long time ago, humans needed three sets of molars in the back of their mouths in order to eat raw foods. However, as people began to cook their food, they needed a third set of molars less and less. Gradually, wisdom teeth began disappearing from some people's mouths, and they are really unnecessary, much like your appendix isn't necessary. This third set of molars is called wisdom teeth because they are the last teeth to come in, and people thought because you were older when those teeth came in, you might be wiser- hence the name wisdom teeth.
Removing Wisdom Teeth
Most dentists advocate removing your wisdom teeth when they begin to cause problems. Often, wisdom teeth become impacted. That means your wisdom teeth are trapped between your jawbone and your gums, and they can't erupt- or break the surface of the gums. Sometimes, these wisdom teeth are trying to come in sideways, which can cause complications with your bite, not to mention tooth crowding and pain.
People with impacted wisdom teeth may experience pain in one or both of their jaws. They may experience headaches, especially during the day. If the wisdom tooth gets infected, it could cause an abscess, which is very painful. You may run a fever as well.
Sometimes, people with impacted wisdom teeth have pain in their ears or throat because of how far the wisdom teeth are in the back of their jaw. If your wisdom teeth are becoming an issue, you need to see a dentist to have them removed. It is considered a minor surgery, but you will need to take it easy for a few days afterward to recover.
For Patients • Oral Surgeon Austin • Dr. J. Steve Widner At Widner Elite Oral Surgery, we suggest our newer patients properly prepare for their first appointment. Learn more here, about our information for patients! Widner Elite Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, 1500 W 38th St, #51, Austin, Tx 78731 / (737) 309-4351 / widneroms.com / 3/27/2023 / Page Keywords: oral surgeon Austin /
About half of all Americans have wisdom teeth, and about 90% of those Americans choose to have them removed. However, just because you can have your wisdom teeth removed doesn't mean you should. Here are some pointers about when you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, and when you can leave them alone.