Should I Take Out My Wisdom Teeth or Keep Them?

A Comprehensive Guide on Wisdom Teeth for Patients in Joliet, Illinois, and Surrounding Areas

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of permanent teeth to emerge, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people experience no problems with their wisdom teeth, while others develop pain, infection, and dental complications as a result of how these teeth grow. A common question dental professionals hear in Joliet, Plainfield, Crest Hill, Shorewood, and New Lenox is: “Should I take out my wisdom teeth or keep them?”

Deciding whether to remove or retain your wisdom teeth is a personal decision that should be based on a thorough dental evaluation, including physical examination and imaging such as panoramic X-rays. The following information will help you understand the function of wisdom teeth, potential issues that can arise, the benefits and risks of removal, and how to make a decision in consultation with your dental care provider.

What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Do They Exist?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back corners of your mouth. Humans evolved with larger jaws to accommodate these molars, which were useful for chewing tough foods like roots and raw vegetation. Over time, with changes in diet and jaw development, many people no longer have sufficient space for these third molars.

Some individuals never develop one or more wisdom teeth, while others may have all four. Whether or not they erupt through the gums, the presence of these teeth can affect your oral health depending on their position and how they grow.

How Wisdom Teeth Grow and What Can Go Wrong

Wisdom teeth may grow in several ways:

• Fully erupted and aligned with other teeth

• Partially erupted with gum tissue covering part of the tooth

• Impacted, meaning the tooth is trapped below the gum line or in the jawbone

• Emerging at an angle, which may push on adjacent teeth
  

When wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow properly, they can cause a range of dental problems. Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth are especially problematic because they are hard to clean and maintain.

Common Issues Associated With Keeping Wisdom Teeth

Crowding and Misalignment

Wisdom teeth that erupt at odd angles may push against neighboring teeth. This pressure can contribute to misalignment, especially in patients who have had orthodontic treatment. Even well-aligned teeth can shift if the third molars place unusual forces on the dental arch.

Gum Disease and Infection

Partially erupted wisdom teeth create pockets between the gum and the tooth where food particles and bacteria can accumulate. These pockets can lead to gum inflammation, infection (pericoronitis), and chronic swelling.

Tooth Decay and Cavities

Food and plaque can become trapped around wisdom teeth, making it difficult to clean the area with regular brushing and flossing. This can lead to decay in both the wisdom tooth and the adjacent second molar, potentially requiring extensive dental treatment.

Cyst and Tumor Formation

In some cases, fluid-filled sacs called cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth. These cysts can damage the jawbone, nerves, and neighboring teeth if left untreated. Although rare, tumors can also develop in association with impacted third molars.

Jaw Pain and Headaches

Pressure from wisdom teeth growing into restricted space can contribute to jaw discomfort and tension, sometimes causing headaches or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort.

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Removing problematic wisdom teeth can prevent many of the issues noted above and improve long-term oral health. Dentists and oral surgeons often recommend extraction in the following scenarios:

• The wisdom tooth is impacted or partially erupted

• The tooth is causing pain or recurrent infection

• The tooth is contributing to decay or gum disease

• The tooth is crowding adjacent teeth

• There is evidence of cyst formation or other pathology
  

In many cases, removing wisdom teeth earlier in life — typically in late teens or early twenties — results in easier surgery and faster recovery because the roots are not fully formed and the bone is less dense.

Risks and Potential Complications of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Like all surgical procedures, wisdom tooth extraction carries potential risks. Understanding these risks is essential when weighing the decision to remove or retain your wisdom teeth.

Common postoperative effects include:

• Pain and swelling in the extraction sites

• Bleeding that may persist for the first 24 hours

• Difficulty opening the mouth (trismus)

• Temporary numbness due to nerve irritation
  

Specific surgical risks may include:

• Dry socket, a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot in the extraction site becomes dislodged

• Infection in the extraction area

• Injury to nearby teeth or restorative dental work

• Temporary or, in rare cases, permanent nerve damage

• Rare complications related to anesthesia or sedation†([turn0search7][turn0search1])
  

While these risks are uncommon, discussing them with your dentist or oral surgeon before the procedure will help you make an informed decision.

What Happens If I Keep My Wisdom Teeth?

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Some individuals have teeth that:

• Erupt fully through the gum line

• Align properly with other teeth

• Function without causing pain or infection

If your wisdom teeth are healthy, accessible for cleaning, and not causing pathology, your dental provider may recommend monitoring them over time with regular checkups and imaging.

Regular dental examinations are essential for tracking changes in wisdom teeth. A dentist will assess the position of these teeth over time and determine whether removal becomes necessary. You may be advised to clean around them meticulously and maintain regular dental visits to prevent long-term problems.

How Wisdom Teeth Decisions Are Made in Joliet and Surrounding Areas

Dentists and oral surgeons serving Joliet, Crest Hill, Plainfield, Shorewood, and New Lenox will typically evaluate wisdom teeth based on:

• Clinical examination

• Dental X-rays or panoramic imaging

• Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or infection

• Your age, health history, and likelihood of future dental issues
  

During your consultation, your oral health provider will explain the findings, treatment options, and whether extraction or conservative monitoring is recommended. Treatment plans are individualized because what is appropriate for one patient may not be necessary for another.

Preparing for Wisdom Teeth Removal

If extraction is recommended, preparation may include:

• Choosing the type of anesthesia or sedation

• Discussing any medical conditions or medications

• Planning time off work or school

• Arranging for transportation, if sedation is used
  

Your provider will give specific instructions for before and after surgery to promote optimal healing.

Expected Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Most patients experience the most discomfort within the first few days after surgery. Recovery typically follows these general guidelines:

• Days 1–3: Expect swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding

• Days 4–7: Swelling and pain begin to subside; soft foods are recommended

• Days 7–14: Most normal activities resume; follow-up with your dentist if needed
  

Your dental provider will give specific instructions on pain management, oral hygiene, and foods to avoid to support healing and minimize complications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth

At What Age Should Wisdom Teeth Be Evaluated?

Wisdom teeth are usually evaluated during late teenage years or early adulthood. Early evaluation allows providers to monitor their development and recommend removal if necessary.

Is It Possible to Keep Wisdom Teeth Without Problems?

Yes. If your wisdom teeth are fully erupted, aligned properly, and do not cause decay or periodontal issues, your dentist may recommend retaining them with regular monitoring.

Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Hurt?

The extraction procedure is performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during surgery. Some discomfort after the procedure is normal and manageable with medication and proper care.

How Long Is Recovery?

Most patients return to normal daily activities within three to five days, with complete healing typically occurring within one to two weeks.

Will Insurance Cover Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Coverage varies by dental insurance plan. Many plans cover routine extractions partially or fully, but it is important to verify coverage and out-of-pocket costs with your provider.

Contact Our Joliet Dentist to Discuss Wisdom Tooth Options

Choosing whether to remove or keep your wisdom teeth requires careful consideration of your oral health, symptoms, and long-term dental wellbeing. While some individuals may retain their third molars without issue, many people experience complications that make wisdom tooth extraction the best option. Working with experienced dental professionals in Joliet, Illinois and nearby communities ensures you receive personalized guidance based on your unique dental structure and history.

If you are in Joliet, Crest Hill, Plainfield, Shorewood, New Lenox, or the surrounding areas and are unsure whether you should take out your wisdom teeth or keep them, schedule a consultation with our dental team today. We offer comprehensive evaluations, state-of-the-art imaging, and personalized treatment plans to help you make the best decision for your long-term oral health. Contact us now at (815) 782-6243 to book your appointment and take the first step toward a healthy, pain-free smile.