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Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth. These teeth typically begin to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25 (1). However, their arrival often brings a host of concerns and complications. Many individuals experience issues related to the presence of wisdom teeth, including pain, infections, and shifting of the surrounding teeth. In this article, we will discuss how wisdom teeth can affect the body, and explore potential solutions to alleviate associated problems. Read on to learn more.
1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
One of the most common issues with wisdom teeth is impaction, which occurs when these teeth do not have enough room to fully emerge or grow in the correct position. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause significant pain, swelling, and infections. The pressure exerted by impacted teeth can also affect the alignment of adjacent teeth, leading to crowding and bite problems. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth may be fully or partially covered by gum tissue or bone, making them more difficult to extract.
2. Infections And Gum Disease
Due to their position at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are often difficult to clean properly. The partially erupted or impacted nature of these teeth creates pockets where bacteria and food particles can accumulate. This accumulation can result in infections, such as pericoronitis (inflammation of the gum tissue around the tooth) and gum disease (periodontal disease). Infections and gum disease not only cause pain but can also have systemic effects on overall health (2). Untreated infections can spread to other parts of the body and may require more intensive treatment.
3. Pain And Discomfort
The emergence or presence of wisdom teeth can cause varying degrees of pain and discomfort. Some individuals experience mild discomfort and sensitivity, while others may endure severe pain, headaches, and earaches. The intensity of the symptoms can be influenced by factors such as the angle of eruption, impaction, and the presence of inflammation or infection. The pain can radiate to the surrounding areas of the face, neck, and jaw, affecting one’s daily activities and overall well-being.
4. Damage To Adjacent Teeth
As wisdom teeth attempt to erupt or push through the gum tissue, they can exert pressure on the adjacent teeth. This pressure can lead to tooth displacement, shifting, and misalignment. The force exerted by wisdom teeth can potentially damage the roots of nearby teeth, causing pain, sensitivity, and increased risk of decay. In some cases, the neighboring teeth may need to be treated or extracted due to the damage caused by the wisdom teeth.
5. Cysts And Tumors
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts or tumors in the jawbone. These growths can cause significant damage to surrounding structures, including nearby teeth and bone. Regular monitoring and timely removal of problematic wisdom teeth can help prevent such complications. X-rays and imaging techniques are used to identify these cysts or tumors, and surgical intervention may be required to remove them.
1. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Routine dental check-ups and X-rays allow your dentist to monitor the growth and positioning of your wisdom teeth. Early detection of potential issues can help prevent complications before they worsen. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of your wisdom teeth and recommend the most suitable treatment approach based on their findings.
2. Extraction
Wisdom teeth that are causing pain, infections, or significant dental problems are often recommended for extraction. Extraction may be performed by a general dentist or an oral surgeon. The procedure can range from a simple extraction for fully erupted teeth to a surgical extraction for impacted or partially erupted teeth. The extraction process involves numbing the area with local anesthesia, removing the tooth, and sometimes stitching the gum tissue. In some cases, extraction may be recommended even if the wisdom teeth are not currently causing problems to prevent potential future issues.
3. Good Oral Hygiene Practices
Maintaining a diligent oral hygiene routine is crucial for the prevention of wisdom teeth-related issues. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antimicrobial mouthwash can help minimize the accumulation of bacteria and food particles around the teeth, including wisdom teeth. Cleaning the area around the wisdom teeth with extra care is essential to prevent infections and gum disease. Your dentist or dental hygienist can provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as recommend specific oral hygiene products that may be beneficial.
4. Antibiotics And Pain Relief
For infections associated with wisdom teeth, dentists may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. Pain relief medication, such as over-the-counter analgesics or stronger prescription options, can also be recommended to alleviate discomfort during the healing process. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions provided by your dentist or healthcare professional.
5. Orthodontic Treatment
If wisdom teeth are causing crowding or misalignment of adjacent teeth, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to restore proper alignment. Orthodontists can use braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances to address the effects of wisdom teeth on the overall dental arch. Correcting the alignment can help improve the bite, reduce the risk of future dental problems, and enhance overall oral health.
While wisdom teeth are a natural part of dental development, they can often lead to a range of complications and discomfort. Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infections, and damage to surrounding structures. Regular dental check-ups, timely intervention, and good oral hygiene practices are essential in managing the effects of wisdom teeth on the body. So, what is your experience with wisdom teeth? Let us know in the comments section!
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Indrani is a writer and artist who likes to add a dash of humor to everything she does. She has two years of experience in writing articles across beauty, health, and lifestyle genres. After graduating in Political Science from Calcutta University, she took a detour into the world of creativity and discovered her knack for social writing, advertising, designing, and…more
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