What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the upper and lower third molars located at the posterior side of the mouth. They are called wisdom teeth because they usually come in when a person is 17 to 21 years old. In this blog post, we will learn about wisdom teeth, the causes of problems related to wisdom teeth, and indications for removal as prescribed by a family dentist in Lakeview, Chicago.
What are the causes of problems with wisdom teeth?
Your wisdom teeth may get impacted in your jaw and be unable to pierce through your gums if your jaw is not large enough to accommodate them. Impacted wisdom teeth are wisdom teeth that do not erupt properly. It can lead to overcrowding of the teeth, infections, ear pain, and swelling. There may also be pain and swelling in the gums, tooth decay, and bad breath. An impacted wisdom tooth can cause discomfort, swelling, and infection in your gums, as well as crowd other teeth.
Wisdom teeth may cause the development of a cyst and harm the bone or roots. The majority of wisdom tooth issues arise in people between the ages of 15 and 25. Fewer than 30% of those over 30 have wisdom tooth issues severe enough to necessitate extraction. Since it’s simpler to extract wisdom teeth when the tooth roots and bones are still developing, several oral surgeons and dentists advise having impacted wisdom teeth pulled before the age of 20.
Indication of Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth need to be extracted when they become problematic or X-rays indicate they may in the future. There are many valid reasons to remove them, such as:
- Damage to adjacent teeth: Having an additional set of molars can force your other teeth out of position, which can lead to biting issues and mouth pain.
- Sinus Problems: Pain, pressure, and congestion in the sinuses can result from issues with wisdom teeth.
- Cavities: Inflamed gums can lead to spaces between teeth, which harbor germs and promote the development of cavities.
- Alignment: Wisdom teeth that are impacted might squeeze out neighboring teeth and potentially necessitate orthodontic therapy.
- Jaw damage: Around the newly inserted teeth, cysts may develop. They can cause nerve damage and hollow down your jaw if left untreated.
- Inflamed Gums: The surrounding tissue may expand and become difficult to clean.
To learn more about what your dentist sees with your teeth, ask them. Often, you may decide later after a few months to see whether anything has changed.
