Photo of Sergio Miller

Wisdom teeth – Is it necessary to have them removed?

The removal of one’s wisdom teeth has recently become increasingly popular.

The reason for many is that it creates some form of irritation in the back of the gum area, and is often quite painful.

Not to mention the constant biting of one’s back gum can have serious consequences. Despite this, many believe that removing one’s wisdom teeth is a compulsory measure that everyone needs to execute. But this might not be the case.

According to the medical publication Mayo Clinic, there is a logical reason for one to remove your wisdom teeth other than when it causes discomfort.

The publication states that as long as the back teeth are healthy, fully grown, biting properly, and able to be cleaned, then that should be enough reason to hold on to it.

However, wisdom teeth are only to be removed for the following reasons:

  • Pain in or near your wisdom teeth.
  • Repeated infection of soft tissue behind the lower last tooth.
  • Fluid-filled sacs called cysts.
  • Tumors.
  • Damage to nearby teeth.
  • Gum disease.
  • Widespread tooth decay.

Looking for a good deal to get your teeth whitened? Click here to grab a professional teeth whitening session deal.

These can be caused by one of the following reasons:

Growing at an incorrect angle

According to the dental expert Lancaster Family Smiles, it would be wise to have your wisdom teeth removed if your teeth have broken through the gum but grow at an angle or sideways.

Failure to do so means that “you put yourself at risk for damage that may require more extensive treatment options down the line.”

Experience pain while chewing

The above-mentioned publication adds that even teeth that are not fully grown out yet can cause pain. This can cause damage to other teeth as well as the jaw joint, while the pain can also result in the loss of appetite.

Grows partly through gums

The reputable publication Mayo Clinic further adds that wisdom teeth are found at the back of the mouth, so they can be hard to clean, creating a breeding ground for bacteria, which may cause gum disease and infection.

“Wisdom teeth that grow partway through the gums can also get cavities, which can’t be fixed with fillings and therefore must be removed.”

Also see: 6 Tips to help you get rid of body odour

NPA and SAPS set the record straight on Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma arrest claims

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have categorically dismissed claims that arrest warrants were issued against Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma and her husband, Xolani Zuma. Also see: Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma says 25 anti-illegal immigration marches are going ahead The couple, prominent figures in the March and March Movement, were the subject of widespread […]

Read more...

Rising star Ndoose_SA releases new album ‘Anticipation 2’

Rising South African musical talent Ndoose_SA is back to carve out an even deeper space for himself in the local music scene. Also see: Karabo Mogane steps into international spotlight with vulnerable new R&B single ‘ONLY4U’ When an emerging artist steps onto the stage, their debut project is often an introduction, a loud, energetic handshake […]

Read more...

Fikile Mbalula’s collapse at ConCourt leaves Mzansi sceptical: ‘He dodged the asylum question’

The Constitutional Court upheld the ANC’s appeal against the exclusion of 181 of its candidates from the local government elections, allowing the candidates to be included on the ballot for the 4 November municipal elections. Whilst addressing the press, the party’s Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula, collapsed after an emotional delivery. Also see: Old video of Fikile Mbalula […]

Read more...