Is It Necessary to Remove Wisdom Teeth After Extracting Another Set?

When it comes to wisdom teeth and their removal, the decision to keep or take out these molars should be based on a combination of factors. While some individuals might prefer to have all their wisdom teeth removed, the decision should not be made lightly. There are reasons to keep at least one set if they are not bothering you. Let's explore the reasons why maintaining at least one set of wisdom teeth might be beneficial and the potential risks associated with their removal.

Why Keep Wisdom Teeth?

The primary reason to keep your wisdom teeth, even after extracting another set, is to avoid the risks and complications associated with another surgical procedure. Experts now recommend that the removal of asymptomatic wisdom teeth, particularly those without associated pain or concerns, is generally not necessary. This means that if your current wisdom teeth are functioning normally and causing you no issues, it might be best to keep them.

Reasons to Avoid Extraction

The most obvious reason not to remove all your wisdom teeth is to prevent over-eruption. This term describes a situation where a tooth, especially a molar or wisdom tooth, has no opposing tooth to act as a counterbalance. As a result, the tooth continues to grow without being held in place by its opposing counterpart. Over time, this can lead to a variety of problems.

Over-Eruption and Its Consequences

When wisdom teeth over-erupt without an opposing tooth to counteract their growth, they can continue to grow indefinitely. This can cause the teeth to grow into the surrounding gums and bone, leading to a host of issues. As the teeth grow longer, more of their root surfaces become exposed. These exposed root surfaces are particularly vulnerable to dental decay because they lack the protective enamel found on the crown of the tooth.

Health Risks of Over-eruption

Exposure of the root surfaces can lead to gum problems around the wisdom teeth. As the tooth continues to grow, it can exert pressure on the surrounding tissue, leading to inflammation, swelling, and potential infections. Additionally, the exposed roots may be more prone to fractures and other dental issues.

Preventing Future Extraction

If you are considering removing only two wisdom teeth from one side, we generally recommend that you stick to removing from one dental arch (either the upper or lower jaw) rather than removing one tooth from each arch. This approach helps to maintain a balanced bite and reduces the risk of future issues with the remaining wisdom teeth.

Preventive Measures and Dental Hygiene

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are crucial in maintaining the health of your remaining wisdom teeth. By keeping your teeth clean and free of plaque and bacteria, you can minimize the risk of decay and gum disease. Additionally, regular dental examinations can help your dentist monitor the growth and health of your wisdom teeth, allowing for early intervention if necessary.

Note: This information provided is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For specific dental care advice, please consult with a licensed dental professional.

Cathye L. Smithwick, RDH, MA, A professional dental hygienist based in Silicon Valley