Wisdom teeth have a reputation for causing problems that’s very well-earned. These third molars typically show up in a person’s late teens or early twenties, long after the rest of their smile has settled in. While some people get lucky and never have issues, the majority of patients will need them removed at some point. If you’re curious as to why these trickster teeth are extracted more often than not, continue reading.
1. There Isn’t Enough Space
Human jaws have changed a lot over thousands of years of evolution. Early man needed extra molars to grind through tough, raw diets of roots, hard nuts, and meat. However, as methods of cooking and farming opened new dietary doors, reliance on these extra teeth disappeared. It’s too bad the teeth didn’t get the memo!
Today, most mouths just don’t have the room for wisdom teeth. When they try to erupt without enough space, they push against neighboring teeth, causing crowding, shifting, and misalignment. This is why, in many cases, removing them before they come in is the best way to protect your oral health.
2. They Become Impacted
When a wisdom tooth can’t find a clear path to break through your gums, it becomes impacted—trapped partially or fully in your gumline or jawbone. This is a serious situation for a few reasons.
First, they can create a flap of gum tissue that easily traps bacteria and food particles, increasing the risk of infection, decay, and gum disease. They can also put pressure on the roots of neighboring teeth, causing damage that isn’t always visible until it needs serious treatment. Lastly, while impacted wisdom teeth don’t always cause pain, when they do, it’s significant and sustained.
3. They’re Too Difficult to Keep Clean
Even wisdom teeth that come in without complications tend to cause problems over time. Their position at the very back of your mouth makes thorough brushing and flossing nearly impossible.
Because of this, bacteria and plaque collect in areas that a toothbrush simply can’t reach. Without proper cleaning, wisdom teeth become more vulnerable to cavities and gum disease—problems that can complicate your oral health.
Most oral surgeons recommend having wisdom teeth assessed in your mid-to-late teens, before their roots are fully developed. Earlier removal generally means a simpler procedure, less discomfort, and a faster recovery. If you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth need to come out, schedule a consultation with your oral surgeon. They can evaluate your smile and see what needs to come next.
About the Author
Dr. Sheng Ji is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who enjoys helping patients feel comfortable with their smiles. He earned his DDS from the University of California, San Francisco, graduating top of his class, and went on to earn his MD from UT Southwestern. Dr. Ji then completed a six-year residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery at UT Southwestern/Parkland. Call (916) 961-1902 to schedule a consultation at Sheng Ji, DDS, MD Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, or visit our website to learn more.