Do all patients need to have their wisdom teeth extracted?
Your wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the largest in your mouth. Unfortunately, many patients’ jaws are not wide enough to accommodate these sizable teeth, which can cause them to fail to erupt properly. Wisdom tooth extraction is typically recommended when the wisdom teeth are impacted. Some patients may not need a wisdom tooth extraction, however, if the third molars are not impacted. If they are able to emerge properly without incident, the patient may be able to keep those teeth. Nonetheless, a significant number of people choose to have their wisdom teeth removed as a preventive measure. You should be evaluated by an oral surgeon to determine what interventions, if any, are most appropriate in your case. You should also make sure that you understand the risks and benefits of the surgical procedure before making a decision on how to proceed. The oral surgeon can examine…