The Unexpected Benefits Of Keeping Wisdom Teeth

Did you know not all wisdom teeth need to be removed? Many people believe wisdom teeth always cause problems, but that’s not true for everyone. In fact, keeping your wisdom teeth can sometimes have surprising advantages. 

From improving dental strength to maintaining jaw alignment, there are unique reasons to consider keeping them. Before deciding on removal, it’s important to understand the benefits of keeping wisdom teeth. 

Let's explore seven potential benefits and why they might be worth holding onto for your long-term dental health.

7 Surprising Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth

If your wisdom teeth are normal, properly aligned and asymptomatic, they can help in functional and architectural aspects. Now let’s take a closer look at these seven benefits.

1. Provides Additional Chewing Surface

An appropriate alignment of the wisdom teeth also allows for chewing forces to be shared evenly, reducing the stress exerted on the jaw and gum area. 

Proper alignment not only assists with the digestive process but aids in the strengthening of the jaw muscles as well, progressively.

2. Acts as a Backup for Missing Teeth

Wisdom teeth can save you in unexpected situations. If you lose a molar due to decay or injury, your wisdom teeth can act as replacements.

For example, dentists often reposition wisdom teeth to fill gaps left by missing teeth. This is more affordable and natural than dental implants. Wisdom teeth provide functionality while maintaining a seamless dental appearance.

3. Preserves Jawbone Density

Removing wisdom teeth can impact your jawbone health. When teeth are extracted, the surrounding bone often shrinks due to lack of stimulation.

Keeping your wisdom teeth prevents this issue. The roots of these teeth keep your jawbone active and dense. This is especially beneficial for older adults, as jawbone density naturally decreases with age.

4. Supports Natural Dental Alignment

Are you worried about teeth shifting as you age? Healthy wisdom teeth may help keep everything in place.

When wisdom teeth grow properly, they fill gaps in the back of your mouth. This alignment prevents adjacent teeth from moving. Without this support, your teeth could shift, leading to crowding or gaps.

5. Reduced Risk of Unnecessary Surgery

Wisdom tooth extraction isn’t risk-free. Nerve damage, infections, and complications are possible outcomes of unnecessary surgeries. 

Keeping your wisdom teeth means avoiding these risks while preserving your natural teeth.

6. Cost Savings

Getting wisdom teeth removed is fairly expensive. You’re looking at an average price between $1,000 and more if you’re getting anesthesia and the whole extraction done.

There’s no need to worry about such a bothersome expense if a person keeps their wisdom teeth. Plus if someone has complications due to the procedure such as extraction, they do not have to do follow-ups such as getting dentures or implants.

7. Helps Maintain Natural Oral Function

Wisdom teeth have an important role in the correct balance of a person’s mouth. They make sure to bear the load of chewing evenly and assist overall in every function that revolves around the mouth.

Wisdom teeth have an advantage for people who are athletically active and/or are accident-prone. In case there is some damage to the front teeth, these final molars are capable of assisting the patient's normal chewing function until the anterior teeth repairs are completed.

Reasons to Keep Wisdom Teeth

Keeping wisdom teeth is beneficial, but only in specific scenarios. Here’s when it’s safe and advisable to retain them:

• The teeth are fully erupted and aligned.

• You have sufficient jaw space to accommodate them.

• Gums surrounding the teeth are healthy and free from infections.

• The teeth are free from cavities or decay.

• You maintain excellent oral hygiene practices.

• Your dentist sees no risk of future complications.

Potential Risks of Keeping Wisdom Teeth

While there are benefits, keeping wisdom teeth isn’t without challenges. Here are some potential complications to consider:

• Increased risk of decay if they’re hard to clean.

• Gum infections due to trapped food particles.

• Difficulty flossing between wisdom teeth and adjacent molars.

• Potential for cyst formation around impacted teeth.

• Pressure on surrounding teeth in case of partial eruption.

• Sinus issues if the upper wisdom teeth grow near sinus cavities.

• Sensitivity due to exposure of tooth roots.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Wisdom Teeth

Keeping wisdom teeth requires consistent care. Follow these tips to ensure they stay healthy:

• Brush thoroughly twice daily, focusing on the back of your mouth.

• Use a fluoride toothpaste to prevent decay.

• Floss around wisdom teeth to remove food debris.

• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings.

• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to combat bacteria.

• Avoid sugary foods that promote cavities.

• Drink plenty of water to flush out particles.

• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.

• Report any pain or swelling to your dentist immediately.

Final Thoughts 

Wisdom teeth don’t always have to go! When properly cared for, they provide numerous benefits, from supporting jawbone health to saving on dental costs. To decide what’s best for you, consult your dentist and consider the benefits of keeping wisdom teeth mentioned in our article.

Share this valuable information with friends and family to help them make informed choices. After all, maintaining your natural teeth is an investment in lifelong oral health. 

Still not sure if keeping your wisdom teeth is the right choice? Schedule a dental check-up today.