If a dentist recently advised you to get a wisdom tooth removal, you may have questions about the procedure. Although this is a fairly common procedure, you may not know why you have wisdom teeth and why they need to be removed. Here's what you should know about wisdom teeth before having them removed.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have enough room in their mouths for these teeth to emerge properly, others may experience pain or discomfort as they grow in.

Why Don’t Some People Have Them?

Not everyone has wisdom teeth. According to Cleveland Clinic, about 53% of people are born without them. It is not entirely clear why some people do not develop wisdom teeth, but it may be due to genetics or changes in the human diet over time.

Why Do Some Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

For those who do have wisdom teeth, they may need to be removed for a variety of reasons. One common reason is that there is not enough room in the mouth for them to emerge properly. This can cause the teeth to become impacted, meaning they are unable to break through the gums. This can lead to infection, pain, and even damage to neighboring teeth and gums.

Wisdom teeth may also grow in at an angle, rather than straight up and down. This can also cause pain and discomfort, as well as difficulty with proper cleaning and maintenance.

Your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend removal of the wisdom teeth, even if they are not causing any immediate problems. This is because wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean and maintain, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease over time.

If you need a dentist to perform wisdom teeth removal, you can trust the team at Alliance Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Keller, TX. Since 2009, Tarrant County residents have counted on them for dependable results in a stress-free, welcoming environment. Schedule an appointment with a dentist today by calling (817) 741-2200, and visit them online to learn more about their services.