Should You Extract Your Wisdom Teeth? Dental Advice and Concerns

Wisdom tooth calcification?

Since April, I have been seeing the dentist, who has consistently recommended that I consider having my wisdom teeth extracted.
Over the past month, I have had several cavities filled, and the dentist mentioned that I should just have regular check-ups.
However, when I asked about the white, slightly indented area next to my wisdom tooth, he said that it is common for plaque to accumulate in that area and that it could be considered a cavity.
But then he said I should just continue with regular check-ups.
If this area is indeed decayed, why can't it be filled? Is he suggesting that we wait until it gets worse before taking action? He keeps insisting that I should consider having my wisdom teeth removed.
I mentioned that I am not considering it right now due to my lifestyle.
He said it's not about being inconvenient, but if it were an impacted tooth or if there was severe decay, I would definitely need to have it extracted.
I am willing to have it removed in those cases, but the dentist just keeps saying that I should think about it, emphasizing that the tooth is hard to clean.
I have also visited other dental clinics, but many dentists seem reluctant to fill cavities in wisdom teeth.
This dentist keeps telling me that regular check-ups are sufficient, which makes me wonder if the situation is not that serious and if the tooth will not continue to decay.
I really don't know if I need to extract a tooth that is otherwise healthy and painless, just because it looks a bit white on the edges.
Is extraction really necessary? Extracting one tooth would mean I also have to extract the opposing tooth, which seems very inconvenient and could affect my speech and work.
Is it possible to avoid extracting my wisdom teeth?

ia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/05

Dr. Chu Boqin reply Dentistry

Hello, I am responding to your inquiry and providing some advice: The dentist you encountered has filled your cavity, indicating that he is a responsible practitioner.
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that typically emerge around the age of 20.
When they are impacted or tilted, or if there is decay, or during travel when food gets stuck causing gum inflammation, extraction is often considered.
In my personal experience, taking an X-ray can help determine whether extraction is necessary.
Of course, you can choose to see a second dentist for an oral examination.
Thank you for your question, and I wish you good health!

Reply Date: 2007/05/05

More Info

Deciding whether to extract your wisdom teeth can be a challenging decision, especially when you are receiving mixed messages from dental professionals. It's important to understand the reasoning behind their recommendations and to consider your own circumstances and preferences.

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. For many people, these teeth can cause problems due to lack of space in the jaw, leading to impaction, crowding, or misalignment of other teeth. When wisdom teeth are impacted, they can lead to pain, infection, and other dental issues. This is why many dentists recommend extraction, especially if they foresee potential complications.

In your case, it seems that your dentist has identified some concerns regarding your wisdom teeth, particularly the presence of cavities or decay near the gum line. The white areas you mentioned could indeed be early signs of dental caries, which can worsen over time if not addressed. However, your dentist's recommendation to monitor the situation rather than immediately extract the tooth suggests that they may not see an urgent need for extraction at this moment. This could be due to the tooth's position, its potential for future problems, or your overall dental health.

Here are some key points to consider regarding wisdom teeth extraction:
1. Monitoring vs. Extraction: If your dentist believes that the wisdom tooth is not currently causing significant issues, they may recommend regular check-ups to monitor its condition. This approach can be valid, especially if the tooth is not causing pain or discomfort and if you are able to maintain good oral hygiene.

2. Cavity Treatment: If the area around your wisdom tooth is indeed decayed, it may be possible to treat it with a filling, depending on the extent of the decay. However, some dentists may prefer extraction over filling for wisdom teeth due to their location and the difficulty of cleaning them properly. If the tooth is difficult to access or clean, it may be more prone to future decay.

3. Impacted Wisdom Teeth: If your wisdom teeth are impacted (unable to fully emerge), this can lead to more serious complications, including infection or damage to adjacent teeth. In such cases, extraction is often recommended.

4. Personal Considerations: You mentioned concerns about the impact of extraction on your daily life, including speaking and working. These are valid concerns, and it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits of extraction against the possible disruptions to your routine.

5. Seeking a Second Opinion: If you feel uncertain about your dentist's recommendations, seeking a second opinion from another dental professional can provide additional insights. Different dentists may have varying approaches to wisdom teeth management.

6. Long-term Health: Ultimately, the goal is to maintain your overall dental health. If your wisdom teeth are likely to cause problems in the future, it may be worth considering extraction sooner rather than later to avoid more complicated procedures down the line.

In conclusion, while your dentist may suggest monitoring your wisdom teeth for now, it’s crucial to stay vigilant about your oral health. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help manage any potential issues. If you have concerns about the condition of your wisdom teeth or the recommendations you've received, don’t hesitate to discuss these openly with your dentist or seek a second opinion. Your comfort and understanding of the situation are paramount in making the best decision for your dental health.

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