Reviewed By Dr. Robert Barron, DMD
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Wisdom teeth often become a concern when there is not enough room for them to grow properly. Without adequate space, they can shift sideways, stay trapped under the gum, or irritate the surrounding tissue. These changes lead to discomfort, infections, or damage to nearby teeth, which is why wisdom tooth removal is such a common oral surgery procedure.
But do they always need to be removed and what are the pros and cons of removal?
Table of Contents
Why Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems
When wisdom teeth grow at an angle, they push against the tooth in front of them, increasing the risk of pain, crowding, and damage to the second molar.
Many wisdom teeth become impacted, meaning they stay trapped under the gum or bone. These impacted teeth often lead to swelling, infections, or cysts that affect dental health.
Partially erupted third molars create a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria. This inflamed gum flap leads to pericoronitis, a painful infection around the wisdom tooth. Even fully erupted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, which increases the likelihood of decay and gum disease.
Once these issues begin, they rarely improve without treatment, which is why so many patients eventually have them removed.
Benefits of Removing Wisdom Teeth
Here are the main advantages of removing wisdom teeth early and how removal supports long-term oral health.
- Removing wisdom teeth reduces the risk of infection in the surrounding gum tissue.
- Extraction helps protect nearby teeth from decay, bone loss, or damage caused by pressure.
- Wisdom tooth removal prevents cysts or other tissue changes that can develop around impacted teeth.
- Taking out hard-to-clean third molars lowers the likelihood of future cavities and gum disease.
- Removal can improve comfort by eliminating recurring soreness, swelling, or inflammation.
- Extracting problematic wisdom teeth supports long-term oral health by removing a common source of complications.
Disadvantages of Removing Wisdom Teeth
While there are no real disadvantages to removing wisdom teeth, it is a dental surgery that carries some risks.
- Dry socket can occur if the blood clot does not form properly or becomes dislodged, which can lead to significant discomfort until the area is treated.
- Infection is possible after surgery, but careful oral hygiene and following post-operative instructions greatly reduce this risk.
- Nerve irritation may occur in some cases, especially with lower wisdom teeth located close to sensory nerves, but long-term issues are uncommon.
- Recovery may take longer for some patients depending on the tooth’s position, bone density, or individual healing response.
Who Should Remove Wisdom Teeth: Dentist or Oral Surgeon?
General dentists handle simple extractions, but wisdom teeth, especially impacted wisdom teeth, often require advanced care. Because these teeth sit close to nerves, bone, and sinus structures, the safest option is working with an oral surgeon.
Oral surgeons perform dental surgery every day and are trained to manage complex anatomy, nerve damage risks, and sedation options. Their experience reduces the chance of complications occurring and ensures proper post-operative care.
Best Timing for Wisdom Teeth Removal for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Most oral surgeons recommend evaluation between ages 16 and 20. At this stage, the roots are not fully formed and the bone becomes more complex and recovery takes longer.
Even adults who missed this window can still safely remove their wisdom teeth, but they should expect a slightly longer healing period.
Schedule a Consultation in Vaughan, ON
Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure that helps prevent infection, protect nearby teeth, and avoid future complications. If you are experiencing symptoms or would like your wisdom teeth assessed, a consultation is the best way to understand your options and determine whether removal is recommended.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Vaughan, ON, call (905) 669-2616 or visit us at 3300 Highway 7 West, Suite 805 Vaughan, ON.
FAQs
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Fully erupted wisdom teeth that are easy to clean and not causing harm can stay. Most problems involve impacted or partially erupted teeth.
Can wisdom teeth cause sinus pressure or headaches?
Upper wisdom teeth sit close to the sinus cavity. When they grow at an angle or become infected, they can cause pressure that feels like a sinus or headache issue.
How long does recovery take?
Most people feel significantly better within three to four days. Complete healing takes a few weeks, but normal activities usually resume quickly.
Who performs wisdom teeth removal near me in Vaughan, ON?
Concord Oral Surgery in Vaughan, ON performs wisdom teeth removal and provides full evaluation and treatment for impacted or symptomatic third molars. To book an appointment for an assessment, call (905) 669-2616.
