Whether wisdom teeth are "OK" depends on individual circumstances; not everyone needs them removed. Some cause no problems, while others can lead to significant dental issues.
In more detail:
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Not everyone has wisdom teeth. Some people are born without them.
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Some wisdom teeth are perfectly fine. They erupt properly, are easy to clean, and don't cause any issues with alignment or crowding. If this is the case, they don't need to be removed.
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Problems arise when wisdom teeth are impacted. This means they are stuck beneath the gums or only partially erupt.
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Impaction can lead to various issues:
- Overcrowding: Wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment.
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth: They can push against or damage neighboring molars.
- Infection (Pericoronitis): Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create a flap of gum tissue where bacteria and food get trapped, leading to infection, pain, swelling, and bad breath.
- Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, cysts or tumors can form around impacted wisdom teeth.
- Decay: Wisdom teeth are hard to reach and clean, making them more prone to decay.
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Symptoms that may indicate problems with wisdom teeth include:
- Pain in the back of the mouth
- Swelling of the gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Bad breath
- Pain when chewing
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What to do:
- Consult a dentist or oral surgeon for an evaluation. They can take X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and assess whether they pose a threat.
- If problems are present or likely to develop, extraction is often recommended.
In summary, wisdom teeth are only "OK" if they are healthy, properly aligned, and not causing any dental problems. If they are impacted or causing issues, removal is usually the best course of action.
