Today's Question: I'm 21 and some of my wisdom teeth haven't completely come in, and with the weather we have been having, they are starting to hurt. What can I do about them? Do I need them out? Steve, Warsaw.
Steve, you're showing your wisdom by asking about your wisdom teeth that haven't fully come in from under your gums. There has been a debate in the dental community for years about the removal of wisdom teeth or third molars. One group feels that they should be removed early, even before the root is fully formed. The other dentists are members of the “if it ain't broke, don't fix it” group and recommend removal only when there is a clear reason to do so. I must admit that I am a member of this more conservative group. Why subject a patient to the trauma of extraction if there isn't a real or important reason?
Wisdom teeth normally make their appearance in your mouth during the ages of 17 to 21. Hence, the name wisdom. That's the time we are supposed to be getting smarter regardless of what our parents and teachers say. Because of the evolution of the human jaw that has become smaller because of modern day foods and preparation methods, some people's mouths cannot accommodate this “extra” tooth. Our ancient ancestors needed that third molar as other back teeth broke down because of their coarse diet. The tooth came along to carry the load and make digestion more complete.
Without this extra room for the wisdom tooth to erupt, it is possible to experience earaches, headaches and swollen gums. It is also possible to crowd the other teeth resulting in uneven tooth alignment. A large panoramic x-ray of your jaw - a panorex-might show the reason for the crowding. The x-ray may even show a tumor or cyst that is growing around the wisdom tooth or destroying an adjacent molar's roots. Any of these conditions are valid reasons to have a wisdom tooth removed.
If your four wisdom teeth haven't made their presence known in your mouth at your age, I would suggest that you have your mouth evaluated by your dentist. Get the x-ray and his opinion about your wisdom teeth.
Does he really think you need some extra teeth to brush? And brush them carefully you must. Because they are located in the back of your mouth, it takes a little extra effort to remove the plaque and tartar that forms on them. Remember, plaque and tartar equals can lead to cavities, and/or gum disease, which equals bad breath and a compromised smile.
Steve, if after the evaluation there is no evidence that your wisdom teeth are causing any problems or damaging your other teeth, keep them.
Remember to mention your condition to your dentist on subsequent visits so he can continue to track their progress and contribute to your good dental health. Those wisdom teeth may come or go, but hopefully now you are a little smarter about them and the contribution they make to your smile.
Dr. Bill Stofer is a practicing dentist in Warsaw and is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Indiana Dental Association, and the North Central Dental Society. He is a lifelong resident of the Warsaw area, a graduate of Warsaw Community High School, Hillsdale College, and the Indiana University School of Dentistry.
Do you have a question about this article or about any of your dental concerns for Dr. Bill? He can be reached at 574-269-1199. Visit us online at www.dentalsolutions.net
