One of the many dental health services we provide in the Perth area is wisdom tooth removal. Over the years, we have found out that there are still a lot of myths and misconceptions about wisdom tooth extraction. Here are five of them.
All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed
Believe it or not, statistics show that only 12% of wisdom teeth ever cause problems so acute that they need intervention from a dentist.
All Wisdom Teeth Should Be Removed The Soonest
Conventional “wisdom” dictates that wisdom teeth should all be removed before their roots are fully formed. This is supposed to minimise the chances of pain and infections. Because of this, many patients have their wisdom teeth removed before they cause any discomfort. Patients who have their wisdom teeth removed early also think they will save money due to less chance of complications.
However, statistics indicate that complications such as dry sockets or secondary infections actually occur more often in young adults than they do in older patients. Consequently, most dentists now recommend a “wait and see” approach which leaves wisdom teeth in until they actually become problematic.
Erupting Wisdom Teeth Can Crowd the Anterior Teeth
This has been proven wrong by multiple studies. Do the math: one wisdom tooth vs. 14 anterior teeth with vertical roots.
Risks and Problems with Wisdom Teeth Increase with Age
It seems to make sense, but there is no scientific data to back it up.
Risks Associated with Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is common, but still carries a lot of risks. These can include: swelling, pain, hemorrhage, trismus (lockjaw), dry socket and periodontal damage.
What it Means to You
It is most important to be on a program of preventative dentistry at as early an age as possible. This includes regular checkups. You need a qualified dentist who can help you decide what is best for you.
To learn more, call (08) 9361 1728 today.