Wisdom teeth

Q. I have my wisdom teeth, how do I know if they should stay, or be extracted?

A. Having regular dental checkups with x-rays allows you to learn about potential problems and have them corrected BEFORE they begin to bother you.
There are a number of reasons for recommending removal of unerupted or impacted teeth. If these teeth could cause problems for the adjacent teeth if left in place – that may be reason to extract them, especially while they are asymptomatic (problem free). There is also the possibility that you could develop such things as a cyst or abscess if left in place. We have a special x-ray machine that takes a picture outside your mouth, and shows you the layout of all your teeth, in particular, the location and angulation of your wisdom teeth.