Do You Need to Extract Impacted Wisdom Teeth Without Pain?

Wisdom teeth are impacted?

A few days ago, I noticed that one side of my jaw joint is swollen and feels hard.
I went to the dentist, who said that my wisdom tooth is impacted and needs to be extracted.
An X-ray was taken.
I would like to ask if the swollen area is not painful, is it still necessary to have the wisdom tooth removed?

A Shao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/14

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Ashao,
Hello! Generally speaking, it is best to extract wisdom teeth if they are causing pain, to prevent more serious issues from arising.
Take care! Wishing you peace and smooth sailing in everything!
Sincerely,
Director Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2020/01/14

More Info

When it comes to impacted wisdom teeth, the decision to extract them is not solely based on the presence of pain. Even if the area around the impacted wisdom tooth is not currently painful, there are several reasons why extraction might still be recommended.
Firstly, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a variety of complications, even in the absence of pain. These complications include:
1. Infection: Impacted teeth can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections that may not cause immediate pain but can result in swelling, bad breath, and other systemic issues.

2. Cyst Formation: Around the roots of impacted teeth, cysts can develop. These fluid-filled sacs can damage the surrounding bone and teeth, potentially leading to more serious dental issues.

3. Damage to Adjacent Teeth: An impacted wisdom tooth can exert pressure on the neighboring molars, leading to misalignment or damage over time. This can result in the need for more extensive dental work in the future.

4. Gum Disease: The difficulty in cleaning around an impacted wisdom tooth can lead to gum disease, which may not present immediate symptoms but can have long-term health implications.

5. Orthodontic Considerations: If you have had orthodontic work done, the presence of impacted wisdom teeth can jeopardize the results by causing teeth to shift.

In your case, since you mentioned that the area is swollen and feels hard, it is essential to consider that this could be a sign of an underlying issue, even if it is not currently painful. The swelling could indicate inflammation or an infection that may not yet be causing discomfort but could lead to more significant problems if left untreated.

The decision to extract impacted wisdom teeth is often made based on a combination of factors, including the position of the tooth, the potential for future complications, and the overall dental health of the patient. Dentists typically recommend extraction if the tooth is fully or partially impacted, as this can help prevent future issues.

If you are concerned about the extraction, it is advisable to have a thorough discussion with your dentist or an oral surgeon. They can provide you with detailed information about the risks and benefits of extraction, as well as the potential consequences of leaving the tooth in place.
In summary, even if there is no pain associated with your impacted wisdom tooth, extraction may still be necessary to prevent future complications. It is crucial to follow your dentist's recommendations and consider the long-term health of your mouth. If you have any doubts or concerns, seeking a second opinion from another dental professional can also be beneficial.

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