Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth:
Myths and Reality
Everyone thinks wisdom teeth should be removed. But is it always the case? The benefits of keeping wisdom teeth are generally neglected due to myths and misconceptions. While in some cases removal might be necessary, there are other cases where keeping your wisdom teeth can be completely safe and even healthy.
Many patients visiting our dental clinic in Ernakulam are unsure whether to keep or remove their wisdom teeth. Let us break the myth and share the facts in simple and easy terms.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the back of your mouth. They usually erupt between 17 to 25 years of age. Some people grow all four, but others grow one, two, or none. Some wisdom teeth come through without causing any issues, but others are problematic and may need removal or other treatment.
Myths About Wisdom Teeth
Myth 1: Wisdom teeth always need to come out.
Fact: False. If your wisdom teeth are healthy, well aligned, and are not causing any issues, you can retain them.
Myth 2: Retaining wisdom teeth leads to crowding of other teeth.
Fact: According to research, wisdom teeth alone are not the reason for crowding. Genes and the size of the jaw also contribute to crowding.
Myth 3: All wisdom teeth will ultimately lead to pain or infection.
Fact: Many people live their entire lives with healthy wisdom teeth that never cause any issues.
Real Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth
Extra Chewing Power
These molars help in chewing and grinding food, especially if you’ve lost other teeth.
Natural Support for Jawbone
Saving your wisdom teeth maintains bone structure within the jaw intact and prevents premature bone loss.
No Surgery Required
If your wisdom teeth are not causing you any trouble, you can skip the pain and risk of surgery.
Saves Money Too
Avoiding unnecessary surgery also means you get to save money on treatment. Many people visit a dental clinic in Calicut just to find out that their wisdom teeth don’t need to be extracted after all.
When Removal is the Most Suitable Choice
There are a few instances in which extraction of wisdom teeth would be the most suitable choice. This is principally when:
- They’re contaminated (trapped beneath the gum)
- They’re painful or swollen
- They damage surrounding teeth
- There’s a decay or contamination
That is why you need to go to a dental checkup every once in a while. A professional dentist in Kochi will be able to conduct an X-ray and tell you if it is safe to retain your wisdom teeth or not and if they should be removed
How to Take Care of Wisdom Teeth
Even though your wisdom teeth are healthy, you still need to take care of them. This is how to do it:
- Brush and floss around them carefully because they are hard to reach
- Rinse your mouth regularly with an antibacterial mouthwash
- Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups
- Good oral hygiene is the key to avoiding infection or decay at the back of your mouth.
Wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed—as long as they’re healthy and in the correct position. Don’t book surgery if you don’t need to. The best thing to do is to consult an expert dentist. They will take you to the best option for your oral health.
Always remember, your mouth is unique. What is good for another person is not necessarily good for you. Trust your dentist to guide you in the correct direction.