Extractions
Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?
A number of problems can arise when the wisdom teeth are left in place. It is impossible to keep them clean, so they can collect bacteria that promote periodontal disease and tooth and bone loss. Wisdom teeth can also directly damage adjacent teeth. Some wisdom teeth may also develop cysts.
Adult patients with wisdom teeth still intact may still need to have them removed, even if those wisdom teeth are not causing any problems or issues. One of the conditions described above can develop at any time. Furthermore, as the patient gets older, the wisdom teeth’s roots get longer and more entrenched, possibly making their extraction much more challenging.
In some cases, wisdom teeth can be removed under local anaesthesia by a general dentist. In other cases, a referral to a specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeon may be required.