Wisdom Teeth: When Monitoring is Enough vs. When Removal is Best

Wisdom teeth—also called third molars—are the final set of molars to develop, usually emerging between the late teens and mid-twenties. While some people never have issues with them, others may need them removed to avoid complications. At Salem Creek Family Dental in Murfreesboro, TN, Dr. Ashley Costello and Dr. Alaina Skidmore help patients determine when it’s okay to monitor these teeth and when it’s time to take them out.

When is Monitoring Enough?

Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. In some cases, they grow in fully, align properly with the rest of your teeth, and stay healthy. Monitoring may be recommended if:

• The teeth are fully erupted and easy to clean
• There’s no crowding or shifting of nearby teeth
• No signs of infection, decay, or cysts are present
• They aren’t causing jaw pain or sinus pressure

With regular checkups and X-rays, your dentist can track any changes over time. Even if your wisdom teeth seem fine now, they may still cause problems later, so consistent monitoring is key.

When is Removal the Better Option?

Wisdom teeth removal may be recommended if any of the following are true:

• They’re impacted (stuck below the gumline or in bone)
• They’re growing in at an angle, pushing against other teeth
• You’re experiencing pain, swelling, or signs of infection
• There’s decay or damage to the wisdom tooth or nearby teeth
• Cysts or other abnormalities appear on X-rays

In these cases, keeping the teeth could lead to bigger problems down the road, like gum disease, tooth damage, or alignment issues.

What to Expect After Removal

If removal is the best choice, here’s a general idea of the recovery timeline:

• Day 1–2: Expect swelling, minor bleeding, and tenderness. Stick to soft foods and avoid straws or vigorous rinsing.
• Day 3–5: Swelling should start to go down. You may be able to resume light activities.
• End of Week 1: Most discomfort has subsided, and the gums are healing well.
• Week 2 and Beyond: Full recovery continues, with the surgical site closing over and feeling more normal each day.

Most patients bounce back within a week, though more complex extractions—like impacted teeth—may take longer.

Wisdom Teeth Consultations in Murfreesboro, TN

At Salem Creek Family Dental, Dr. Costello and Dr. Skidmore take a thoughtful approach to wisdom teeth. Whether you’re a teen just getting them in or an adult dealing with new symptoms, we’re here to help you decide the best course of action. If you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth should stay or go, book an exam and let’s talk it through—no pressure, just personalized care.

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Categorised in: Wisdom Teeth