When it comes to your oral health, wisdom teeth are often a common concern. These third molars typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25, but for many people, they don’t come in without problems. Impacted wisdom teeth—teeth that don’t have enough space to fully emerge—can cause serious issues if left untreated. At The Oral Surgery Institute of the Carolinas, we want you to understand the risks of ignoring impacted wisdom teeth and why seeking treatment early is important.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars at the back of your mouth. In an ideal situation, these teeth come in straight and fully through the gumline. However, for many people, there isn’t enough space in the jaw to accommodate them. When this happens, the wisdom teeth become “impacted” and are unable to fully emerge or break through the gumline.
While some people may not experience any problems, 90% of individuals will experience at least one impacted wisdom tooth in their lifetime. When this happens, problems can arise that affect your overall oral health.
The Risks of Untreated Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If you leave impacted wisdom teeth untreated, several issues can develop. Here’s a closer look at the risks:
- Damage to Neighboring Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can push against the adjacent teeth, causing them to shift or even become damaged. Overcrowding of teeth can lead to misalignment, which may affect your bite and cause discomfort. - Infection and Gum Disease
An impacted wisdom tooth that’s partially emerged can create a pocket where bacteria can easily build up. This can lead to gum infections or gum disease. Infected wisdom teeth can also cause bad breath and persistent pain. - Cysts and Tumors
Sometimes, a cyst can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts can destroy the surrounding bone and soft tissue, leading to more serious oral health problems. While rare, tumors can also develop, which may require more complex surgery to treat. - Pain and Swelling
As impacted wisdom teeth attempt to emerge, they can cause significant pain, swelling, and discomfort in the back of the mouth. The pain can be especially intense when the tooth is pressing against the jawbone or other teeth. - Difficulty Cleaning and Tooth Decay
Impacted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean because they are located at the very back of the mouth. This makes it easier for plaque and bacteria to accumulate, leading to tooth decay or cavities. If left untreated, this can lead to more severe oral health issues.
Untreated Wisdom Teeth – FAQs
How To Know If You Have Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
It’s not always easy to tell if your wisdom teeth are impacted. Some people may not experience pain or noticeable symptoms, while others may have issues with swelling, tenderness, or difficulty opening the mouth fully. That’s why it’s important to have a regular dental check-up, especially during your teenage years, when wisdom teeth begin to emerge.
An oral surgeon can evaluate your wisdom teeth using X-rays and an oral exam. This allows us to determine if your wisdom teeth are impacted and if they may cause future problems. Early evaluation often leads to better outcomes and can prevent more serious complications later on.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
The best time to address impacted wisdom teeth is often before they cause significant problems. Our recommendation is to have an evaluation done in your mid-teen years. Early detection and treatment can help avoid more complex issues, and in many cases, removal of impacted wisdom teeth is easier when done earlier.
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or other symptoms related to your wisdom teeth, it’s important to consult with an oral surgeon as soon as possible. Delaying treatment may lead to more serious complications that can affect your overall oral health.
Resources
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- Asheboro Location: Asheboro Location – The Oral Surgery Institute
The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait!
If you have impacted wisdom teeth, it’s essential to address them before they lead to more severe problems. At The Oral Surgery Institute of the Carolinas, we provide expert evaluation and treatment for wisdom teeth, including safe and effective removal when necessary. Taking care of your wisdom teeth early can prevent complications like infection, pain, and damage to your other teeth.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and protect your oral health for the long term. Let’s make sure your smile stays healthy and bright!