When searching for the answer to the question, “should I get my wisdom teeth removed,” you need to consider that there are many factors at play. For most people, it is a matter of when to get your wisdom teeth removed, not whether or not you should. Some people do not have wisdom teeth, or they grow in such a way that they do not interfere with the placement of the rest of your teeth. If you are one of those people, you’re probably not going to be reading this article, so we’re going to address all of the different factors that go into deciding when to have your wisdom teeth removed.
What are some of the more common conditions caused by issues with wisdom teeth?
1. Impacted teeth
Impacted teeth can occur when the wisdom teeth cannot come in because they are blocked, usually by teeth that are crowded or in the way, or the wisdom tooth is still underneath the bone. Wisdom teeth can also be tilted under the gum so that they essentially grow in the wrong direction. The tooth being blocked or growing in sideways can cause pain, but many feel nothing at all and may not be aware that there is an issue. Your dentist can look for this on an X-ray and determine if you have impacted wisdom teeth.
2. Pericoronitis
Periapical or Apical Pericoronitis is inflammation around the tip or peak of the root of your tooth. This inflammation is most commonly caused by bacteria in the pulp of the tooth and will typically require that a tooth extraction. Pericoronitis can happen with any tooth but is often a cause for the need to remove your wisdom teeth. While it is not always painful, you may experience sensitivity and noticeable inflammation of the gum surrounding the infected tooth, so be mindful of this if you know that you still have your wisdom teeth and you start to experience any swelling or discomfort.