Wisdom teeth: Why do they often have to be extracted?

The extraction of wisdom teeth is a frequent recommendation in certain situations in order to prevent potential oral and dental problems.

There are several reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be extracted:

• Lack of space: Wisdom teeth can cause problems when there is not enough space in the jaw to accommodate them properly. They may grow in at an angle, be partially erupted or remain completely embedded in the gum. This can lead to pain, infection, cysts, damage to adjacent teeth or problems with dental alignment.
• Impaction: Impaction occurs when wisdom teeth are unable to fully erupt through the gum tissue and remain partially or fully impacted in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth are more prone to infection and cysts and can exert pressure on neighbouring teeth.
• Cavities and gum disease: Wisdom teeth, because of their position at the back of the mouth, are often difficult to clean properly. This can lead to a build-up of bacterial plaque, increasing the risk of dental caries, gum disease (gingivitis) and periodontitis.
• Alignment problems: Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on other teeth and cause them to shift, creating dental alignment problems and requiring orthodontic treatment.
• Prevention: In some cases, wisdom teeth are extracted as a preventive measure to avoid possible future problems, even if they are not yet causing symptoms. This approach may be recommended when the dentist anticipates potential complications, such as recurrent infections or damage to neighbouring teeth.

It is important to consult a dentist for an individual assessment to determine whether wisdom teeth extraction is necessary in your case. The dentist will assess the condition of the wisdom teeth, the space available in the jaw, your overall oral health and provide recommendations tailored to your specific situation.

The decision to have wisdom teeth removed or retained depends on the individual situation and the dentist’s recommendations. However, it is essential to consider the potential risks associated with choosing not to extract them.

These risks include problems with tooth alignment, such as overlapping or gaps between teeth, as well as tooth decay and gum disease, resulting from difficulty in cleaning wisdom teeth properly. Pain, infection and inflammation of the gums can occur when wisdom teeth are partially erupted or impacted.

In addition, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts or cystic lesions, causing damage to surrounding structures. Delaying the removal of wisdom teeth can also lead to subsequent surgical complications. It’s crucial to talk to a dentist to understand the risks and benefits specific to your situation and make an informed decision.

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure performed by an oral surgeon.

Before the operation, a consultation will be carried out to determine their condition, and specific radiographic and/or biological tests may be prescribed by your surgeon. A prescription is given with pre- and post-operative treatment to control oedema and pain.

During the pre-operative consultation, the surgeon will explain the characteristics and risks of the operation. Depending on your expectations, the surgeon will propose surgery in one or more stages; in most cases, all 4 wisdom teeth are removed during the same operation.

Local anaesthetic is the first stage of the surgery. Its effect is rapid and effective, making the procedure comfortable and safe. An incision is made in the gum to expose the tooth. Wisdom teeth are often separated into several elements for extraction. After the wisdom tooth has been extracted, stitches may be needed to close the gum.

The patient is monitored after the procedure and receives post-operative advice. Each case is unique, and variations in the procedure may be necessary depending on the position and complexity of the wisdom tooth. Your dentist will be able to provide specific information and answer questions before and after the procedure.

At Sana Oris, we understand the importance of choosing the right professional for safe and effective wisdom tooth avulsion. Our clinic is renowned for its expertise in dental care and we are committed to providing a welcoming environment and a highly qualified medical team to ensure you have a safe and comfortable experience throughout the procedure.

Among our practitioners, oral surgeon Dr. Robardey is an experienced professional, renowned for his expertise in wisdom teeth extractions. His skill enables him to perform extractions while minimising risk and promoting optimal recovery.

At Sana Oris, we do everything we can to ensure you have a positive experience and the best possible results.
We invest in modern facilities and sophisticated equipment, enabling Dr. Robardey to perform extractions with precision and efficiency, enhancing patient comfort. The clinic team will remain available during the post-operative period.