Publisher: Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth. General educational information; this article has not been reviewed by a licensed dental professional.
A wisdom tooth can contribute to chewing when it is healthy and comes through in the right position. The American Dental Association includes that point in its patient guidance. It does not mean that an impacted or unhealthy tooth offers the same benefit.
What “useful” means for your own teeth
The question is about a tooth’s actual position and condition, rather than how many teeth a person has. Ask your dentist whether the tooth participates in your bite, whether it is healthy, and whether you can clean it adequately. A general article cannot determine that from the fact that a wisdom tooth is present.
Claims about bite strength and digestion
The earlier version of this article claimed a particular advantage in bite-force distribution, fewer fractures in other teeth, and near-perfect nutritional absorption after extraction. It did not provide adequate evidence for those comparisons. Those statements have been removed. We do not provide a percentage increase in chewing ability or promise that keeping third molars improves digestion.
Chewing benefit is one part of a decision
A tooth may have a potential function and still require treatment because of its condition. Conversely, describing wisdom teeth as automatically useless does not explain why a healthy tooth should be removed. The reasoning should address the examination findings, options and risks for that tooth.
Questions for an appointment
- Does this tooth actually take part in my bite?
- Is there disease involving it or the neighboring tooth?
- Can I keep the area clean?
- If we keep it, what follow-up is appropriate?
- If removal is advised, what finding or treatment need is the reason?
See our keeping-versus-removal guide for the distinction between healthy erupted teeth and symptom-free impacted teeth.
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