Why Wisdom Teeth Often Need to Be Removed

Dental extracting wisdom teeth in Livonia, MI

Many people will need their wisdom teeth removed at some point. These third molars can cause several problems as they try to emerge in your mouth. Understanding the common issues can help you recognize when it’s time to see your dentist. If you’re in Livonia, MI, you should visit Livonia Dentistry for comprehensive wisdom teeth removal services. We use modern techniques to make the process as smooth as possible. But first, let us explain when extraction is necessary and what you can expect from wisdom teeth problems and removal.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are your third set of molars. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth – two on top and two on bottom. These teeth get their name because they emerge when people are older and supposedly wiser.

Typically, mouths have space for 28 teeth. However, when wisdom teeth try to emerge, they bring the total to 32, which can create crowding problems. Many people’s jaws are simply too small to fit these extra teeth comfortably.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not everyone gets wisdom teeth, and some people get fewer than four. But for those who do have them, several potential issues may necessitate removal. The most common reason is a lack of space. When there isn’t enough room, the teeth may:

Come in crooked or sideways
Only partially emerge from the gums
Push against other teeth
Remain trapped under the gums

Another primary reason for removal is the difficulty in cleaning these back teeth. Because they’re so far back in your mouth, it’s hard to brush and floss them properly. This difficulty can lead to decay and gum disease. Some wisdom teeth may also develop cysts or tumors around them. While rare, these conditions require the removal of the affected teeth.

Signs You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal

Several signs indicate you may need your wisdom teeth removed:

Pain and Discomfort – These are the most obvious signs. You might feel pain in the back of your mouth, jaw, or even your ears. The pain may come and go or be constant.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums – Puffy, bleeding gums around the wisdom teeth area suggest problems. Your gums may also feel tender or look red.
Crowding of Other Teeth – Crowding can happen when wisdom teeth push against existing teeth. You might notice your front teeth becoming crooked.
Bad Breath or Bad Taste – If you can’t get rid of bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, you may have food and bacteria trapped around partially emerged wisdom teeth.
Difficulty Opening Your Mouth – Wisdom teeth can cause jaw problems, making it difficult to open your mouth.
Recurring Sinus Problems – Upper wisdom teeth issues are sometimes linked to recurring sinus problems.

Is Wisdom Teeth Removal a Surgery?

Yes, wisdom teeth removal is considered oral surgery. However, it’s a very common and routine procedure. The complexity depends on factors like:

How the teeth are positioned
Whether they’ve fully emerged
The shape and size of your roots
Your age when the procedure is done

Simple extractions involve teeth that have fully emerged and can be removed easily. Complex extractions may require cutting into the gum or removing bone to access the tooth. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area. For multiple extractions or complex cases, you might also receive sedation to help you relax.

How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Take?

The time needed for wisdom teeth removal varies based on several factors. A simple extraction of one tooth might take only 10 to 15 minutes. Removing all four wisdom teeth could take 45 minutes to an hour. Factors that affect timing include:

The number of teeth being removed
Position of the teeth
Complexity of the extraction
Your individual anatomy

More complex cases involving impacted teeth may take longer. After examining your situation, your oral surgeon will give you a better time estimate.

Recovery time is separate from the actual procedure time. Most people need about a week to fully recover from wisdom teeth removal.

Common Dental Issues That Lead to Extraction

Several specific problems commonly lead to wisdom teeth extraction:

Impaction – This happens when wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to emerge normally. The tooth may be completely buried in the jawbone or only partially emerge. Impacted teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.
Crowding – When wisdom teeth push against other teeth, they can cause crowding, which may undo years of orthodontic work or cause previously straight teeth to become crooked.
Decay – Because wisdom teeth are hard to clean, they’re prone to tooth decay. Once decay starts, treating these back teeth effectively can be difficult. Removal may be the best option.
Gum Disease – Poor access for cleaning can lead to gum disease around wisdom teeth. The gums may become infected, swollen, and painful. This condition often requires extraction to resolve.
Cysts – Fluid-filled sacs called cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth. These can damage the jawbone and nearby teeth if left untreated.
Root Damage – Sometimes, wisdom teeth damage the roots of adjacent molars. This can weaken these important teeth and may require the removal of the wisdom tooth to prevent further damage.

Contact Us for Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Livonia, MI

Regular dental checkups can help identify issues early. If you’re experiencing any signs of wisdom teeth problems in Livonia, MI, rely on the experts at Livonia Dentistry for comprehensive treatment. We provide consultations to discuss your options. If extraction is needed, we’ll explain the procedure and help you prepare for a smooth recovery. Contact us today to learn more.