Wisdom teeth—also known as third molars—usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, one in each corner of the mouth. These molars are a leftover from a time when humans had larger jaws and rougher diets, which made extra chewing surfaces more useful. Today, with smaller jaw structures and modern dental care, they often don’t fit properly—and in many cases, they end up causing more issues than benefits. So why are they so often removed? The answer depends on how they grow in and how they affect the surrounding teeth and tissues.
When Wisdom Teeth Can Stay
There are cases when wisdom teeth don’t require removal. This usually happens when the teeth:
- Fully erupt through the gums
- Align properly with nearby molars
- Don’t affect the bite or cause crowding
- Remain free of decay or gum inflammation
- Can be cleaned effectively at home
In these situations, Prairie Dental Group may recommend monitoring them during routine checkups. It’s still important to keep an eye on them, as their position or condition can change with time.
When Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed
In many people, wisdom teeth do not have the space they need to come in normally. This can lead to several complications, such as:
- Impaction: When a tooth doesn’t fully emerge and remains stuck under the gums. Some impactions are harmless, but others can lead to infection or damage nearby teeth
- Crowding: Pressure on nearby teeth that can shift their position
- Decay: Difficulty cleaning partially erupted teeth increases the risk of cavities
- Gum issues: Swollen or inflamed tissue around the tooth
- Jaw pain or stiffness: Often due to pressure or infection
- Cyst development: Rare but potentially serious fluid-filled sacs that form near the tooth
Many of these problems start without obvious symptoms. Regular imaging—such as panoramic X-rays—can help identify risks early, even if you’re not currently feeling discomfort.
Why Timing Matters
Wisdom tooth removal is often easier—and recovery is faster—when it’s done earlier in life, ideally before the roots have fully developed. Prairie Dental Group usually recommends evaluating wisdom teeth between the ages of 16 and 25. After age 30, extractions can take longer to heal and may involve more risk, especially if the teeth have become impacted or are close to nerves.
Early removal is often a preventive step to avoid larger issues later.
First Steps If You’re Unsure
If you’re not sure whether your wisdom teeth should stay or go, here’s what to do:
- Schedule an evaluation: Prairie Dental Group will examine your mouth and take panoramic X-rays.
- Review your symptoms (if any): Pain, swelling, or crowding should always be discussed.
- Ask about timing: If removal is recommended, acting sooner often makes the process simpler.
- Don’t wait for pain: Many problems can develop silently and worsen over time.
Even if your wisdom teeth seem fine now, an evaluation gives you a clear understanding of what’s going on beneath the surface.
Wisdom Tooth Evaluations at Prairie Dental Group in Eden Prairie, MN
At Prairie Dental Group in Eden Prairie, Dr. Benjamin Fenger, Dr. Jeffrey Moos, Dr. Cole Boerema, Dr. Erik Engelbrektson, and Dr. James Watson believe in thoughtful, personalized care—especially when it comes to wisdom teeth. Not every patient needs wisdom teeth removal, but for those who do, early diagnosis and planning make all the difference.
If you’re unsure about your wisdom teeth or your teen is approaching the age when they typically appear, now is a good time to schedule an evaluation. With expert imaging, honest guidance, and a commitment to your long-term oral health, Prairie Dental Group is here to help you make the right choice at the right time.
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