Introduction
Wisdom teeth—those third molars that appear in your late teens or early 20s—are known for causing more questions than answers. Should you remove them if they don’t hurt? Is it better to wait? What happens if you don’t?
At Klarity Dental in Egbeda, Lagos, we often get asked whether wisdom teeth really need to be removed. The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—but there are clear signs that it might be time.
In this article, we break down when wisdom teeth removal is necessary, what to watch out for, and what the process looks like.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars at the very back of your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, although it’s possible to have fewer—or none at all.
They usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, they grow in perfectly aligned and cause no issues. But for many, they become impacted, misaligned, or cause crowding and pain.
When Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
Wisdom teeth removal becomes necessary when they cause or are likely to cause:
1. Impacted Teeth
If a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully erupt, it can stay trapped in your gums or jawbone, causing pain, infection, or cysts.
2. Crowding
Wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of place, undoing years of orthodontic work or causing bite issues.
3. Decay or Gum Disease
Because wisdom teeth are hard to reach, they’re more likely to trap food and bacteria, leading to cavities or gum infections.
4. Infections
Impacted or partially erupted teeth can form pericoronitis, a painful infection that causes swelling and difficulty in opening your mouth.
5. Jaw Pain or Headaches
In some cases, pressure from misaligned wisdom teeth can lead to headaches or jaw discomfort.
When Removal Might Not Be Necessary
You may not need removal if your wisdom teeth:
- Are fully erupted
- Are aligned properly
- Can be cleaned properly
- Are not causing any symptoms or damage to nearby teeth
Regular dental X-rays can help determine if your wisdom teeth are safe to keep.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Process at Klarity Dental
Here’s what to expect if removal is necessary:
- Consultation & X-ray: We examine your mouth and take X-rays to assess the position of the teeth.
- Treatment Plan: If removal is needed, we explain your options, including local or general anesthesia.
- Surgical Extraction: The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes.
- Recovery: You may need a few days of rest, with full healing in 1–2 weeks. We provide aftercare instructions and medication if needed.
When to Book a Consultation
If you’re in Lagos and experiencing:
- Jaw stiffness or swelling at the back of your mouth
- Pain near your molars
- Red or swollen gums
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
…it may be time to speak to a dentist. Early detection can prevent more complicated problems later on.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth don’t always have to come out—but when they start causing issues, it’s better to act early. At Klarity Dental, we offer safe, comfortable wisdom teeth removal in Lagos with expert care and modern technology.
Don’t wait for the pain to start—book a consultation today.
