Should You Keep or Remove Your Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth or third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically during late adolescence or early adulthood. While some individuals experience no problems with their wisdom teeth, others may face complications that require removal. Deciding whether to keep or extract wisdom teeth depends on their condition, alignment and overall impact on oral health.

When to Keep Your Wisdom Teeth

You can keep your wisdom teeth if they meet the following conditions:

1. Healthy

Wisdom teeth should be free from cavities, decay, and infection. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor their health and ensure no underlying issues arise.

2. Fully Erupted

Wisdom teeth that have completely emerged from the gums are easier to manage and less likely to cause complications. Fully erupted teeth are accessible for cleaning and less prone to infections.

3. Properly Aligned

Wisdom teeth should align well with the rest of your teeth. Proper alignment ensures they do not disrupt your bite or cause discomfort when chewing.

4. Properly Biting

When wisdom teeth contribute to your bite and chewing functionality without causing interference, they can be retained.

5. Easy to Clean

Wisdom teeth that are accessible for brushing and flossing are less likely to harbor plaque and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

When to Extract Your Wisdom Teeth

Extraction is often necessary if your wisdom teeth cause complications or pose a risk to your oral health.

1. Are Severely Damaged

Teeth with extensive decay, fractures, or infections that cannot be effectively treated should be removed to prevent further complications.

2. Remain Within the Gums

Impacted wisdom teeth that remain trapped within the gums can lead to cysts, infections, and other oral health issues.

3. Emerge Crookedly

Wisdom teeth that grow at odd angles may press against adjacent teeth, causing pain and misalignment of your bite.

4. Are Only Partially Erupted

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets in the gums, trapping food particles and bacteria. This increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

5. Cause Crowding of Adjacent Teeth

If wisdom teeth push against neighboring teeth, they can disrupt the alignment of your smile, undoing orthodontic work and causing discomfort.

How Ashford Dental Centre Can Help

At Ashford Dental Centre, we specialize in evaluating and treating wisdom teeth to ensure optimal oral health. Whether you choose to retain or remove them, our dentists at

• Thomson Dental Clinic
• Bedok Dental Clinic
• Serangoon Dental Clinic
• Jalan Kayu Dental Clinic

offer personalized care to address your unique dental needs. Using diagnostic tools, we assess the condition of your wisdom teeth and recommend the most suitable treatment options.

Conclusion

The decision to keep or extract wisdom teeth depends on various factors, including their health, alignment and impact on your oral health. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the condition of your wisdom teeth and address potential issues early.

Book an appointment today and take the first step towards a straighter, healthier smile!