The wisdom tooth is the third set of molars in the back of the mouth that appear in late adolescence. Many people’s wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge from the gums’ proper angle. Most wisdom teeth are “impacted” when they grow. An impacted tooth can create a variety of issues. A wisdom tooth that becomes trapped beneath the gum causes an infection, leading to subsequent difficulties. When these late-stage molars erupt from the gums and crowd your existing teeth, they can be quite painful. Worse, there have been documented occurrences of wisdom teeth contributing to jaw alignment, sinus issues, long-term cavity damage, and cysts. Wisdom teeth extraction has various advantages, including promoting good oral health. The healing and recovery time is usually shorter, and you can usually avoid most of the associated problems by removing them as soon as possible. Below are the possible outcomes of impacted wisdom teeth:
- It can damage neighbouring teeth – Because your permanent teeth are already in place, the emergence of an extra set of molars may cause them to shift. It can result in pain, biting issues, and overcrowding, making brushing and flossing difficult, leading to cavities or tooth decay. If therapy is neglected, you may require further treatments to correct impacted neighbouring teeth.
- Injury to the jaw – Stiffness or pain appears first, followed by damage to the jawbones, which affects the mouth’s function and mobility. Wisdom teeth, like all teeth, emerge from the jaws and through the gums, although this isn’t always the case, particularly when there isn’t enough room around the other teeth. Some wisdom teeth become impacted in the jaw, causing other teeth and the jawline to shift. It can be difficult to open your mouth, which can cause pain. When left untreated, cysts can grow along the newly erupted molars, hollowing out the jaw bones and damaging the nerves of nearby, healthy teeth.
- Sinus issues – We all know how closely the mouth and nose are linked, but did you know that impacted wisdom teeth can influence the sinuses? When the growing of these molars causes sinus pain, pressure, and congestion, wisdom tooth surgery is needed. Oral health is related to general health, so any symptom or condition should be taken seriously.
- Pain and sensitivity – Many people are unaware that their wisdom teeth are impacted until they are in agony. Like any other dental issue, it starts modest and almost invisible. Any toothache, discomfort, or minor throbbing sensations should not be ignored.
- Pay attention to where it happens – if it happens when you’re eating or brushing your teeth, it’s likely that your wisdom teeth have erupted. It won’t be long until they begin to develop at an angle to the other teeth, causing jaw problems or crowding neighbouring teeth.
- Gum inflammation – Oral health isn’t only about teeth; gums also play an important role and might be harmed by impacted wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth that develop at an angle to the other teeth or horizontally might enlarge the gums and make them difficult to clean. These reddish regions along the gum line are sometimes tender to the touch, making it difficult to brush and floss properly, eventually leading to cavities and tooth decay.
The decision to extract wisdom teeth isn’t always straightforward. Discuss the position and health of your wisdom teeth with your Calgary dentist at London Square Dental to determine the best course of action for you. Call us at 403-291-4945 to book an appointment!
