Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth and are often the cause of pain and discomfort for many people. While they are not necessary for chewing or speaking, they can cause problems if they become impacted or infected.
There are many myths and misconceptions about wisdom teeth, and it is important to dispel these to better understand their purpose and how to take care of them.
Wisdom Teeth Myth #1: Only Teenagers Need Wisdom Teeth Removed
This is one of the most common myths about wisdom teeth. While it is true that many teenagers have their wisdom teeth removed, this is not always the case. In fact, wisdom teeth can erupt at any age, and they may not need to be removed unless they are causing problems.
Wisdom teeth removal is typically recommended when the teeth become impacted or infected. This can happen at any age, and it is not limited to teenagers.
Wisdom Teeth Myth #2: Wisdom Teeth Serve No Purpose
Another common myth about wisdom teeth is that they serve no purpose. This is simply not true. Wisdom teeth were once used for chewing tough foods, but they are no longer necessary for this purpose.
Wisdom Teeth Myth #3: Wisdom Teeth Removal is a Painful and Difficult Procedure
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, and it is typically not painful or difficult. In most cases, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and the procedure is typically completed in less than an hour.
After the procedure, you may experience some soreness and swelling, but this is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
Wisdom Teeth Myth #4: Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed
Wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed. In fact, many people never have any problems with their wisdom teeth and never need to have them removed. However, if wisdom teeth become impacted or infected, they may need to be removed. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection, and they can also damage the nearby teeth.
Here are the common myths (You’ll Know If Your Wisdom Teeth Show Up) about wisdom teeth.
Wisdom Teeth Myth #5: You’ll Know If Your Wisdom Teeth Show Up
This is a common myth about wisdom teeth. Many people believe that if their wisdom teeth start to come in, they will experience pain and other symptoms. However, this is not always the case. Wisdom teeth can come in without causing any symptoms at all. In fact, many people do not even know they have wisdom teeth until they have an X-ray or dental exam.
Conclusion
It is important to be informed about the myths and facts related to wisdom teeth to make the best decision for your own dental health. Wisdom teeth are not necessary and can actually cause more harm than good if they are not removed properly. If you are considering removing your wisdom teeth, be sure to consult with a qualified dentist to ensure that the procedure is done safely and correctly.
It’s always good to have a dentist in Brighton, MA, take a look at your overall dental health, wisdom tooth and all. Contact us at (617) 566-0308 right away or schedule a consultation here!
