<p>I’ve got all my teeth. My dentist keeps suggesting I have them removed. They are all in, and there is no crowding problems. If they have big mouths, I would suggest getting a second opinion on what you are trying to prevent.</p>
<p>Wisdom teeth are the new tonsils.</p>
<p>I was told that both my kids needed their wisdom teeth removed and should see an oral surgeon. I was shown the x-rays for both kids and I initially agreed with the assessment – in both cases, the teeth had not erupted but were all clearly growing sideways rather than vertically, and would apparently never come through properly.</p>
<p>My oldest had to wait because she was on her way to a year abroad. Guess what? When she returned, all 4 wisdom teeth had erupted and were in perfect position with no problems. Evidently, teeth can correct themselves even if they are wildly out of position under the gums. When my younger son was advised by two different dentists to see an oral surgeon for the same reason, I said no. I was sure his teeth would come through fine, which they did. The dentist told me this is rare, but I only think it is rare because so many American teens have their wisdom teeth pulled proactively.</p>
<p>I and my husband, along with all grandparents had no problem with their wisdom teeth, so why is it that for this generation every dentist insists they need to be removed? I did a lot of research about this. Look it up. The British Dental Association now recommends against prophylactic removal of wisdom teeth; they now only remove them if there are symptoms or problems. </p>
<p>Obviously if your child is having pain or other problems, that is a different situation. But for a kid with no symptoms, I think this operation is over-performed and often unnecessary.</p>