As a dentist, one of the most common questions I receive from patients is whether it’s necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth. This is a valid concern, as wisdom teeth removal is a commonly performed procedure, and many people are unsure whether it’s truly necessary. In this article, I’ll provide a detailed explanation of what impacted wisdom teeth are, why they can cause problems, and when it’s necessary to remove them.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
First, let’s define what we mean by “impacted wisdom teeth.” Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people may never develop them at all.
When wisdom teeth emerge normally, they push through the gums and take their place in the dental arch. However, in some cases, they become impacted, which means that they are unable to fully emerge from the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can be classified in several ways, depending on their position in the jaw:
Mesial impaction: The tooth is angled forward, towards the front of the mouth.
Vertical impaction: The tooth is straight, but it is stuck in the jawbone and cannot emerge.
Distal impaction: The tooth is angled backward, towards the back of the mouth.
Horizontal impaction: The tooth is lying on its side, parallel to the other teeth.
Why Do Impacted Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems, depending on their position and the individual’s oral health. Some of the most common issues include:
Crowding: When there isn’t enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to emerge, they can push against the other teeth and cause crowding. This can lead to misalignment, bite problems, and difficulty cleaning between the teeth.
Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can create pockets in the gums where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection. This can cause pain, swelling, and even more serious health problems if left untreated.
Cysts and Tumors: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumors to form in the jawbone. These can be painful and may require surgical removal.
Decay: Impacted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, which can lead to decay and cavities. This can be especially problematic if the tooth is partially emerged, as it can be hard to reach with a toothbrush.
When Is It Necessary To Remove Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Now that we’ve discussed the potential problems that impacted wisdom teeth can cause, let’s talk about when it’s necessary to remove them. In general, there are three main reasons why a dentist or oral surgeon might recommend wisdom teeth removal:
Pain: If the impacted wisdom teeth are causing pain or discomfort, removal may be necessary to alleviate the symptoms.
Infection: If the impacted wisdom teeth are causing infection or inflammation in the gums, removal may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
Damage to Other Teeth: If the impacted wisdom teeth are pushing against the other teeth and causing damage or misalignment, removal may be necessary to prevent further problems.
In some cases, it may be possible to monitor impacted wisdom teeth and avoid removal if they are not causing any problems. However, this approach requires regular dental checkups and careful monitoring to ensure that the teeth are not causing any damage.
What To Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
If your dentist or oral surgeon recommends wisdom teeth removal, you may be wondering what to expect during the procedure. Here’s a brief overview of what typically happens:
Anesthesia: You will receive anesthesia to numb the area around the wisdom teeth and prevent pain during the procedure. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, you may receive local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia.
Extraction: The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gums and remove the impacted wisdom teeth. In some cases, the teeth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to make removal easier.
Recovery: After the procedure, you will need to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activity. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding, but these symptoms should subside within a few days.
Conclusion
In summary, impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems, including crowding, infection, and damage to other teeth. While not all impacted wisdom teeth require removal, it’s important to monitor them closely and seek treatment if they are causing any symptoms or complications. If you do need wisdom teeth removal, your dentist or oral surgeon can provide guidance and support throughout the process to ensure a successful outcome.
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