Nowadays, there is a lot of controversy on whether third molars (also known as wisdom teeth) should be extracted or not. These molars come out when we are 18 years of age (approximately) and in some cases there might be complications. We will list the most common complications when it comes to wisdom teeth and why any of these situations an extraction SHOULD be done:
1.-TOOTH NOT ERUPTED
When a third molar does not erupt (or does not come out) in the mouth it could mean that a) there is not enough space in your arch for the tooth or b) the molar might be in the wrong position. This is determined by taking an x.ray. If there is limited spacing or the molar is not in the correct position, an extraction should be performed. Otherwise there might be even more complications if the molar stays impacted.
2.-CAVITIES OR INFECTION
It’s common that cavities are formed in wisdom teeth due to the fact that they’re the hardest tooth to reach when brushing and flossing. When a wisdom tooth has deep cavities and an infection occurs, it’s highly suggested that you remove the tooth. Treating a wisdom tooth in an endodontic and restorative manner is very complicated and extractions are required instead.
3.-ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
In most cases, when a patient is undergoing an orthodontic treatment (braces or invisalign), it is required that all wisdom teeth should be removed. This is to correctly align the existing teeth using the space further in the back.
4.-PAIN
When a wisdom tooth is painful, an extraction should be performed. Having pain is not a good sign and it can spread to your facial muscles, ear and affect your overall oral health.
If you do not relate to any of the 4 points mentioned above, there is a possibility that your wisdom teeth are healthy and in good occlusion (bite). You may keep your wisdom teeth if they are healthy. We suggest going to a dentist for a wisdom tooth evaluation and see if they are healthy and they don´t fall into any of the categories above.