Myth 1: Wisdom teeth must always be removed.
Fact: Wisdom teeth don’t always cause trouble when they do show up. In fact, there may not even be a need for extraction if they are healthy and properly aligned. However, wisdom teeth often pose complications such as partial eruption then they only partially break through the gums. This allows bacteria to form around the tooth and result in pain, jaw stiffness, swelling, and other dangerous complications.
Myth 2: We get our wisdom teeth when our other adult teeth come in.
Fact: Wisdom teeth don’t come in until age 17-25, which is commonly known as the “age of wisdom”. But that’s only if they come out at all. About 35% of us never get wisdom teeth!
Myth 3: Ice cream and milkshakes are great after an extraction.
Fact: The fact that they’re soft makes it easy to ingest and the fact they’re cold helps soothe the pain and the swelling. However, it’s important not to use a straw because suction can dislodge the clots resulting from the surgery.
Myth 4: It is best to remove wisdom teeth before starting orthodontic treatment.
Fact: This varies from case to case. While there is some concern that wisdom teeth may cause the other teeth to move, thus hindering the effects of the treatment.
Myth 5: You can tell if you have wisdom teeth.
Fact: Not being able to see your wisdom teeth does not mean they’re not there. That’s because wisdom teeth can be enclosed within the soft tissue or the jawbone. Therefore, an x-ray must be taken to reveal any hidden teeth, as well as any potential problems with their growth.