Wisdom teeth, often known for being problematic and a common candidate for removal, don’t always need to be removed.
These late-erupting molars can sometimes be more than just a dental dilemma; they have the potential to offer benefits when they align correctly and remain healthy. If nothing else, it’s best to avoid the tooth extraction surgery when possible!
This article aims to explore the less-discussed advantages of keeping wisdom teeth, providing a different perspective on these often-misunderstood teeth.
Quick Answer: What are the Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth?
Keeping healthy wisdom teeth can have benefits, including maintaining natural chewing function, avoiding post-surgical bone loss, and avoiding the costs and risks associated with surgical removal.
However, the decision should be based on individual oral health, as improperly erupted or problematic wisdom teeth may require removal to prevent complications.
Natural Function of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last to emerge in the human mouth, typically making their appearance in the late teenage years or early twenties. They are remnants of our evolutionary past when our ancestors' diets required more robust chewing capabilities.
When wisdom teeth erupt properly and align well with the rest of the dentition, they can fulfill their intended function – aiding in the efficient grinding and chewing of food.
This proper alignment and eruption are crucial for them to contribute positively to oral health. The unintended consequence of wisdom teeth — which is seen commonly — is a partially erupted (“impacted”) tooth that results in pain, swelling, or discomfort.
Benefits of Properly Aligned Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth that have emerged correctly and are well-aligned with the other teeth can be a valuable asset to one's oral health.
They complete the dental arch, providing additional surface area for chewing and grinding food. This can enhance the overall functionality of the mouth, especially in breaking down tougher or more fibrous foods.
Well-aligned wisdom teeth also contribute to a balanced bite, which can prevent issues related to uneven wear and tear on other teeth. In essence, when they fit well and cause no discomfort or oral health issues, wisdom teeth can be an beneficial part of a healthy and fully functional set of teeth.
Potential for Healthy Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can indeed emerge healthily and without causing any oral health issues.
For this to happen, several conditions need to be met, such as having enough space in the jaw for them to grow in properly, and the teeth emerging straight without becoming impacted. In such scenarios, wisdom teeth can be as healthy and functional as other molars.
Additionally, when they erupt fully and you maintain good oral hygiene, they are less likely to suffer from decay or gum disease. This scenario, while not universal, is a possibility for some individuals and can result in a full set of functional molars.
Cost & Surgical Risks Avoided
The extraction of wisdom teeth, particularly when they are impacted, can be a complex and costly procedure. It often involves surgery, which carries inherent risks such as infection, nerve damage, or complications from anesthesia.
By keeping healthy wisdom teeth, individuals can avoid these surgical risks and the associated financial costs. It's also important to consider the recovery time and potential discomfort following wisdom teeth extraction, which can be significant depending on the complexity of the case.
Psychological & Emotional Considerations
Undergoing oral surgery, such as wisdom teeth extraction, can have psychological and emotional impacts, especially for those who are anxious about dental procedures.
The anticipation of surgery, the recovery process, and the disruption to daily life can be sources of stress and anxiety.
For individuals whose wisdom teeth are healthy and properly aligned, avoiding extraction means they can also avoid the emotional and psychological stress associated with such a procedure.
This can be particularly beneficial for those with dental anxieties or phobias, who would otherwise require sedation in order to have the wisdom teeth extracted.
Long-Term Oral Health with Wisdom Teeth
Retaining healthy wisdom teeth can positively contribute to long-term oral health. When these teeth are well-maintained and free from common dental issues like decay or gum disease, they add to the overall functionality of the mouth.
It’s important to note that most people are unable to maintain their wisdom teeth for an entire lifetime without developing decay or periodontal disease around the tooth. However, with proper home care, it is possible.
Regular dental check-ups are essential in such cases, as they allow dental professionals to monitor the condition of wisdom teeth and ensure they remain healthy. During these visits, dentists can also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices specific to wisdom teeth, helping to prevent potential problems that could arise in the future.
Final Thoughts
The decision to keep wisdom teeth is one that should be made on an individual basis, taking into consideration each patient's unique oral health circumstances.
While retaining healthy, properly aligned wisdom teeth can offer several benefits, it's crucial for patients to have regular dental evaluations to ensure these teeth are not causing harm or leading to complications.
Dental professionals play a key role in assessing whether keeping wisdom teeth is the best course of action for each patient, balancing the potential benefits with any risks. Ultimately, the focus should always be on maintaining optimal oral health and well-being.
FAQs
Is there any benefit to keeping wisdom teeth?
Yes, there are benefits to keeping healthy wisdom teeth, such as preserving natural chewing function and avoiding surgical risks. If the wisdom teeth are fully erupted and unlikely to cause periodontal issues, the benefits of keeping the wisdom teeth usually outweigh the risks.
Why do experts now say not to remove your wisdom teeth?
Experts advise against routine removal of properly erupted wisdom teeth unless they are likely to cause problems. Keeping healthy wisdom teeth can avoid unnecessary surgery and its associated risks.
What happens if I don't get wisdom teeth removed?
If your wisdom teeth are healthy and properly aligned, they can remain without issues. However, problematic wisdom teeth may lead to complications like pain, infection, or misalignment of other teeth. For partially-impacted wisdom teeth, or teeth with decay or risk of gum infection, it is generally recommended to get the teeth removed before symptoms occur, ideally while the patient is young and able to tolerate the surgery.
Why is it better to have your wisdom teeth removed?
Removal is often recommended if wisdom teeth are impacted, misaligned, causing pain, or contributing to dental issues like decay or gum disease.
What are the cons of keeping your wisdom teeth?
Keeping problematic wisdom teeth can lead to complications such as decay, gum disease, and pain. Oftentimes, problematic wisdom teeth will become infected and lead to severe pain.
Why don't dentists let you keep your wisdom teeth?
Dentists recommend removal based on individual assessments. If wisdom teeth pose a risk to oral health, removal is advised to prevent future complications. It is always your choice to keep wisdom teeth, despite what your dentist recommends — you should just be aware of the risks in doing so.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.