The third molars, or what’s more commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, typically erupt through the gums in children and adults between the ages of 17 and 25. Having one’s wisdom teeth removed has become a “rite of passage” or sorts, with an estimated 5 million Americans undergoing the procedure each year. But this begs the question: do wisdom teeth really need to be removed?
Only a qualified and licensed dentist or oral surgeon can determine whether or not a patients wisdom teeth should be removed. However, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the procedure when one or more of the following symptoms are present:
- Cysts
- Tumors
- Pain
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Potential to damage nearby teeth
- Periodontal
- Gingivitis
- Tooth decay