Understanding Wisdom Teeth: Impact, Removal, and Your Oral Health

As you transition into your late teens and early twenties, you might encounter a new oral health milestone: the emergence of your wisdom teeth. While some individuals may only develop one or two, and others none at all, many will experience the arrival of their third molars. For some, these teeth erupt without issue, allowing them to remain in place for life. However, for a significant number of people, wisdom teeth can lead to crowding or become impacted. Your dentist plays a crucial role in monitoring the progress of your wisdom teeth during routine checkups. They'll assess whether there's sufficient space for proper eruption or if impaction is likely. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), an impacted tooth is one that becomes trapped within your jawbone or under your gums, unable to fully break through and emerge into your mouth. Why Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted? The prevalence of impacted wisdom teeth is linked to human evolution and dietary changes. Historically, when our ancestors relied on diets of raw plants, nuts, and seeds, larger jaws were necessary for the extensive chewing required to break down tougher foods. This provided ample space for third molars to erupt and align within the dental arch. However, as human diets evolved and included cooked, softer foods, our jaws began to adapt and decrease in size. Consequently, most modern humans have less room in their jaws, often leading to the common occurrence of impacted wisdom teeth, necessitating their removal. Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Removal While not all wisdom teeth require removal, their position in the mouth makes them particularly susceptible to tooth decay. Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure they remain healthy and disease-free. It's a common misconception that teeth hidden beneath the gums are immune to problems. Unfortunately, impacted third molars are prone to various issues, including cavities, abscesses, gum disease, and cysts, which can even damage adjacent teeth. To prevent these complications, many individuals opt for preventative wisdom tooth removal before problems arise. What Does Impaction Mean? In ideal scenarios, your wisdom teeth might align perfectly behind your second molars without disrupting your smile. However, they can also emerge at various problematic angles: angled toward the second molar, angled towards the back of the mouth, lying horizontally within the jawbone, or even perfectly upright but still trapped within the jawbone. The Mayo Clinic describes two types of impaction: a partially impacted tooth, where a portion of the tooth's crown is visible, and a fully impacted tooth, which never breaks through the gums at all. Untreated impacted wisdom teeth can lead to serious oral health issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. They can also cause damage to surrounding teeth, including infection and overcrowding. In rare instances, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to the formation of cysts and tumors. Symptoms of Impacted Teeth It's important to note that impacted wisdom teeth don't always present with noticeable symptoms. Many people have impacted teeth without realizing it, highlighting the importance of annual dental appointments and X-rays for early detection. When symptoms do arise, they often stem from inflammation or infection of the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. Common symptoms include: Red or swollen gums Tender or bleeding gums Jaw pain Swelling around the jaw Bad breath An unpleasant taste in your mouth Difficulty opening your mouth Swollen lymph nodes in the neck If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult your dentist promptly. Understanding Pericoronitis A common issue associated with partially impacted wisdom teeth is pericoronitis. This condition occurs when a flap of gum tissue over the tooth traps food particles and bacteria, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Persistent inflammation can cause pain when biting down and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Pericoronitis can escalate to more severe symptoms, so early intervention by your dentist is vital. If you suspect you have impacted wisdom teeth, contact your dentist for a thorough checkup and X-rays. Your dentist or an oral surgeon will discuss the best treatment options for your specific condition. Addressing impacted wisdom teeth is a common step toward maintaining a healthy and bright smile. Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.