Do you have to get your wisdom teeth pulled?

Whether or not a person needs to have their wisdom teeth pulled is a decision that should be made in consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon. Wisdom teeth are the last molars to develop, and they usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. In some cases, wisdom teeth can come in without causing any problems, but in other cases, they can become impacted or cause overcrowding.

If wisdom teeth become impacted, they can put pressure on the surrounding teeth and cause pain, swelling, and infection. Impacted wisdom teeth can also damage the roots of the neighboring teeth and lead to tooth decay. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth may need to be surgically removed to prevent further problems.

Overcrowding is another common reason for wisdom teeth extraction. When wisdom teeth come in, they can push the other teeth forward and cause them to become crowded. Crowding can make it difficult to brush and floss properly, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. In some cases, wisdom teeth extraction may be necessary to correct overcrowding and improve oral hygiene.

The decision of whether or not to have wisdom teeth pulled is a complex one that should be made in consultation with a qualified dental professional.