What happens if you never get your wisdom teeth out?
The wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While many people choose to have their wisdom teeth removed due to various complications, there are those who wonder what would happen if they never got them out. In this article, we will explore the potential consequences of keeping your wisdom teeth, including both the positive and negative aspects.
Positive Aspects of Keeping Wisdom Teeth
1. No Surgical Risk: One of the most significant advantages of keeping your wisdom teeth is the absence of surgical risks associated with extraction. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure, but it does come with potential complications, such as infection, nerve damage, or dry socket.
2. No Post-Operative Pain: Without the need for extraction, you can avoid the discomfort and pain that often accompany the healing process after surgery. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with a low pain tolerance or those who prefer to avoid medical procedures.
3. No Cost for Extraction: The cost of having wisdom teeth extracted can be quite substantial. By choosing to keep your wisdom teeth, you can save money on dental bills.
4. No Need for Follow-Up Care: Wisdom teeth extraction often requires follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process. Keeping your wisdom teeth means you won’t need to schedule additional dental visits for extraction-related care.
Negative Aspects of Keeping Wisdom Teeth
1. Crowding: One of the most common reasons for wisdom teeth extraction is crowding. If your jaw is too small to accommodate the wisdom teeth, they can become impacted, causing crowding and misalignment of other teeth.
2. Gum Disease: Impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to gum disease due to the difficulty in cleaning the area around them. This can lead to inflammation, pain, and potential tooth loss.
3. Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and other complications. In some cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body.
4. Cysts or Tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors, which can damage surrounding teeth and bone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not to have your wisdom teeth out is a personal decision that depends on various factors, including the size of your jaw, the position of your wisdom teeth, and your overall dental health. While there are advantages to keeping your wisdom teeth, such as avoiding surgical risks and costs, there are also potential negative consequences, such as crowding and gum disease. Consulting with a dental professional can help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.
