Risks of not removing wisdom teeth Wisdom teeth, often referred to as the third molars, typically make their appearance through the gums during late adolescence or early adulthood. They are the final set of molars to develop in the mouth. The eruption of wisdom teeth varies unpredictably, with the number ranging from one to four. In rare instances, an individual can have more than four wisdom teeth. Some people do not even develop wisdom teeth. In most cases, wisdom teeth don't erupt fully beyond the gum line and instead, stay entirely below it. This is because they have smaller mouths; hence there is insufficient space to accommodate the third molars. Our dentist at can help remove your wisdom teeth. The following are the risks of not removing your wisdom teeth:Tooth DecayIf your wisdom teeth do not erupt appropriately, the erupted portions can create challenging-to-clean areas within the gum tissue or between adjacent teeth. These regions become ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, which can subsequently contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. In more severe cases, the excessive growth of bacteria in the mouth can result in infection, leading to further complications. Oral InfectionsWhen wisdom teeth partially emerge from the gums, a soft tissue flap may develop over them. The flap can trap food particles, leading to swelling and discomfort in the gums. This situation increases the risk of infection significantly. The trapped food particles create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, potentially causing an infection that can lead to further complications if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to address this issue promptly to minimize the risk of infection and alleviate any associated discomfort. Gum DiseaseKeeping your wisdom teeth increases the risk of developing gum disease in the back of your mouth. This is mainly because these teeth are difficult to reach and clean properly, making them more susceptible to bacteria buildup. Consequently, the health of other parts of your mouth may also be affected. However, by regularly visiting your dentist for check-ups, usually two times a year, these issues can be identified and treated at an early stage. Regular dental visits play a crucial role in maintaining optimal oral health and addressing potential problems associated with wisdom teeth. Oral CystImpacted teeth pose the risk of infection and harm to other oral structures. The swollen area surrounding impacted teeth can potentially develop into an abscess, forming a fluid-filled sac, or even become a cyst. These conditions can result in significant implications for your overall oral health, potentially causing harm to the adjacent teeth, jaw, and underlying bone structures. It is crucial to address impacted teeth promptly to mitigate the potential complications they may cause. Regular dental examinations and timely intervention can help prevent and manage these issues effectively. Nerve DamageThe presence of impacted wisdom teeth poses a potential risk to two important nearby nerves: the lingual nerve and the inferior alveolar nerve. The lingual nerve is responsible for the sensation of the tongue, while the inferior alveolar offers sensation to the skin that covers the chin and lower lip. Persistent infections and jaw pain related to impacted wisdom teeth can potentially lead to nerve damage. Do you have problematic wisdom teeth? At Jason Widner DMD Family Dentistry, we offer wisdom teeth services. You can reach us through, 425-868-0123 if you have any questions about wisdom teeth. |
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