Need to have wisdom teeth removed - Why?

[CindyC]

My wisdom teeth are through and are not impacted. My dentist says that I have to have them removed. I don't understand why. They are through completely and my mouth is big enough so my other teeth are not being squeezed, so why must I have them removed? Can anyone suggest another reason why they should be removed?

[Dr Ehsan J. Esfahani]

Hello CindyC

Thank you for your post.

Wisdom teeth do not cause any problems for most people so they do not need to be removed. Some wisdom teeth cause dental health problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, repeated mouth infections or an abscess around the wisdom teeth and adjacent gum. You may need to have them removed if this is the case. If there isn't enough space for them to grow at the back of your mouth, they become what is known as impacted and can cause pain, swelling and/or infection. It is important to see your dentist regularly if you have impacted wisdom teeth. Having your impacted wisdom teeth surgically removed can relieve symptoms. It may be possible for your dentist to remove your wisdom teeth or your dentist may decide to refer you to an oral surgeon.