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Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are often the last teeth to develop and appear in your mouth. They come in between the ages of 17 and 25, a time of life that has been called the "Age of Wisdom." But when they become impacted, trouble can arise. In this blog, we'll explore what impacted wisdom teeth are, the risks associated with them, and the available treatment options.
Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars at the back of the mouth that don't have enough room to emerge or develop normally. They can be trapped in your jawbone or gums, which can be painful. There are several types of impaction, including mesial, vertical, horizontal, and distal impaction.
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause various problems, including damage to other teeth, infection, and cysts. If not addressed quickly, these issues can lead to more serious health problems.
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to several serious problems. For instance, they can cause damage to other teeth as the extra set of molars pushes on your second molars. They can also lead to infection, causing the surrounding gums to become swollen and tender. In some cases, a cyst can form which can damage the roots of nearby teeth or destroy the bone that supports your teeth.
Other potential risks include tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty with oral hygiene. Because they're so far back in your mouth, wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean properly. This can make them a magnet for bacteria and plaque, leading to these dental health issues.
When it comes to treating impacted wisdom teeth, extraction is often the best course of action. This involves a surgical procedure where the teeth are removed under anesthesia. It's a common and straightforward procedure, and most people recover quickly with minimal discomfort.
However, not all impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed. If they're not causing any problems and are not at risk of causing future issues, your dentist may recommend leaving them alone. Regular check-ups will be necessary to monitor the situation and ensure no problems develop.
While you can't prevent the development of wisdom teeth, regular dental check-ups can help detect any potential issues early. X-rays can show wisdom teeth before they emerge, allowing your dentist to determine if they're likely to cause problems.
Good oral hygiene can also help prevent issues with wisdom teeth. Regular brushing and flossing can keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection and decay.
If you're experiencing pain or discomfort at the back of your mouth, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Other signs that you should see a dentist include swelling around the jaw, bad breath, difficulty opening your mouth, and prolonged jaw pain or headaches.
Even without these symptoms, regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the development and emergence of wisdom teeth. This can help prevent potential problems and ensure your mouth stays healthy.
If you're in Gilbert, AZ, and suspect you may have impacted wisdom teeth, don't wait to seek treatment. At New Horizon Dental Center, our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating impacted wisdom teeth. Don't let the discomfort and potential risks of impacted wisdom teeth affect your oral health. Reach out to us at (480) 664-2270 to schedule an appointment today.
