Oral Surgery News & Blog

Most likely, yes. Patients with wisdom teeth that are left to grow are more susceptible to many oral health problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay, and even an increased risk of tumor and cyst development. Dentists will most likely mention extraction to their patients sooner or later.

In fact, dentists recommend that nearly 80% of patients get their wisdom teeth removed. It’s generally easier to recover from oral surgery when patients are younger, and the wisdom teeth have just begun to come in; this is typically the mid to late teenage years. The longer you wait, the more your wisdom teeth’ root system will develop and solidify to your jaw, making the extraction process much more complicated and potentially painful. If not removed, they can cause problems for your oral health.

What Happens If I Don’t Get Them Removed?

Wisdom teeth are an extra set of molars that most people’s jawbones do not have room for. As the wisdom teeth grow in, they can push on other teeth and cause them to become crowded and misaligned, making it harder to keep your teeth healthy. Sometimes, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning that the tooth is unable to break through the gums and fully emerge into your mouth. Impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to infection or cause a cyst that can damage your bones. Impacted teeth can also grow in at an angle, sometimes even horizontally, another factor that can lead to tooth misalignment.

Even if your wisdom teeth do grow in properly, their awkward positioning at the extreme rear of your mouth can make them very difficult to clean, which can result in gum disease or cavities. Even though wisdom teeth extraction often seems arduous or unnecessary, the truth is that many people hit their thirties before experiencing any serious problems, which can make extraction all the more difficult. Dentists recommend that you get your wisdom teeth out sooner rather than later, so it’s a good idea to act quickly when your dentist recommends wisdom teeth extraction for you. It’s an important step, and being proactive about your oral health can lead to a better quality of life overall. Always make sure to talk to your dentist to make sure you know the facts about your oral health, and what action you need to take to make sure you stay healthy.

Finding an Experienced Oral Surgeon in Boise

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common and safe process, and the talented professionals at Boise Oral Surgery are ready to help when you need it. Dr. Bobst and the entire team at Boise Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center work as a team to assess your needs, plan your treatment, ensure an optimal post-operative recovery, and strive to deliver a compassionate patient experience. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or consultation!