Wisdom teeth are the molars at the back of the mouth. They are the last teeth to emerge, which happens in the late teens or early twenties for most people. The number of wisdom teeth ranges from one to four, though the teeth do not erupt at all in some individuals.

Some people experience issues with wisdom teeth as they fail to emerge through the gum fully. When this happens, extractions are usually necessary.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

As the human mouth has become smaller, it has given lesser space for the third set of molars. It means that teeth may fail to emerge fully, remaining impacted. They can remain beneath the gum or may emerge partially.

An impacted or partially erupted tooth can lead to infection, a condition known as operculitis or pericoronitis that causes inflammation. It begins with minor gum and dental follicle inflammation that can worsen as the infection spreads. It causes symptoms such as pain, swelling, and fever.

Reasons to Remove Wisdom Teeth

There are reasons why wisdom teeth need to be removed. The reasons include the following:
 

• Overcrowding of teeth in the mouth.
   

• Affecting the adjacent teeth.
   

• Headaches and oral pain.
   

• Difficulties with oral hygiene.
   

• Risk of developing a cyst.
   

• Causing sinus issues.

Extracting Wisdom Teeth

Dentists recommend the best time to remove a wisdom tooth is before the roots are fully formed. This is usually between the ages of 18 to 24. Extracting the tooth when the patient is older increases the risk of complications such as nerve damage.

Wisdom teeth can put pressure on the neighboring molars, causing enamel deterioration. If the teeth erupt during orthodontic treatment or while wearing braces, it can cause the teeth to shift incorrectly.

Signs of Wisdom Teeth Issues

Some signs can indicate you have an impacted wisdom tooth. The signs include:
 

• Tender gums.
   

• Red and swollen gums.
   

• Jaw pain.
   

• Swollen jaw.
   

• Headaches.
   

• The sensation of a bad taste in the mouth.
   

• Tumors or cysts.
   

• Persistent bad breath.
   

• Gum disease.

What Happens If Wisdom Teeth Are Not Removed?

Failing to remove impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various oral issues. The teeth are more likely to develop cavities because they are harder to clean. It is easy for microbes to become trapped around the tooth, especially if pockets develop in the gums.

Periodontal pockets, or gaps between the teeth and gums, can become deep, creating a shelter for bacteria. Failing to remove impacted wisdom teeth can increase the risk of developing gum disease. If the tooth remains in the gum, it can result in a cyst that can damage bone or soft tissue.

Most people will argue that modern diets have made wisdom teeth unnecessary or redundant. People who do not need to chew on raw food, bones, or plant roots do not need the last molars. Removing wisdom teeth can help avoid oral complications associated with underdeveloped tooth roots. If wisdom teeth erupt at the wrong angle, they can push the adjacent teeth, causing permanent damage.

For more on what happens if wisdom teeth are not removed, visit bty DENTAL at our Anchorage, Alaska offices. Call (907) 333-6666 to schedule an appointment today.