What Happens If You Don't Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth (also known as third molars) are the final teeth to make an appearance in your mouth. In this blog, we'll discuss the importance of wisdom teeth, exploring their unique impact on oral wellness.
More importantly, we'll address the pressing questions that many of you might be pondering: What happens if you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed? And why do you have to get wisdom teeth removed in the first place?
Let’s sink our teeth into this mystery and discover when it's wise to keep them — and when it's wiser to bid them farewell.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Before you decide on whether or not to keep them, it’s important to fully understand how and when wisdom teeth develop.
Anatomy and Development
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that most individuals develop. These teeth typically make their appearance in late adolescence or early adulthood, usually between the ages of 17 and 25 — a time often associated with the acquisition of "wisdom," hence their colloquial name. Unlike other teeth, wisdom teeth are not essential for functional chewing. They are considered remnants of our ancestors, who had larger jaws and a diet that required more robust molars.
The development of wisdom teeth begins deep within the jawbone, and as they form, they must navigate through the bone and gum tissue to find their place at the very back of the mouth. This journey is not always a smooth one — complications can arise, particularly due to the limited space in the modern human jaw.
To visualize their location, try standing in front of a mirror, opening your mouth, and looking beyond your second molars at the very end of your upper and lower dental arches. Here, nestled at the back, are the sites where your wisdom teeth emerge. In a fully developed adult mouth, there are typically four wisdom teeth — one in each corner of the mouth, with two on the top and two on the bottom.
Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Worried about what happens if you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed? Unfortunately, not all wisdom teeth make it to their intended destination. When a wisdom tooth fails to emerge fully or properly into its expected position, it is considered impacted. Impaction can lead to a variety of dental issues, including pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. There are four main types of impaction, each with its unique challenges:
- Mesial Impaction: This is the most common type of impaction, where the wisdom tooth is angled towards the front of the mouth. It pushes against the second molar, which can lead to crowding, damage to the adjacent tooth, or even the development of cysts.
- Vertical Impaction: In this scenario, the wisdom tooth is oriented correctly but cannot break through the gum line due to lack of space. While vertical impactions are less problematic than other types, they can still cause gum irritation and potential infection.
- Horizontal Impaction: This is a severe form of impaction where the wisdom tooth lies horizontally and grows into the roots of the second molar. This can cause significant pain and lead to extensive damage to the adjacent tooth and jawbone.
- Distal Impaction: Less common than mesial impaction, a distally impacted wisdom tooth is angled towards the back of the mouth. It may not pose immediate problems but can become troublesome if it pushes against bone or other structures.
The effects of these impactions on oral health cannot be overstated. Impacted wisdom teeth can pressure adjacent teeth, leading to misalignment, crowding, and even adhesion of neighboring tooth roots. They can also be difficult to clean, making them hotbeds for bacteria, decay, or gum disease. In some cases, cysts or tumors may develop around the impacted tooth, requiring more complex treatment.
Understanding the anatomy and potential complications of wisdom teeth is crucial for early intervention, as well as the prevention of long-term dental issues. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor the development of these teeth, guiding timely decisions regarding their management or removal.
When to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed
In certain cases, wisdom teeth grow relatively straight in the back of the mouth, requiring no further treatment. However, if there are complications during their growth, removal by your dentist may be necessary to prevent further issues.
Signs and Symptoms of Problems
Wisdom teeth can often bring a host of issues as they attempt to squeeze into an already crowded mouth. While some individuals may never experience problems, these third molars can be the source of significant discomfort for others. Recognizing the symptoms of problematic wisdom teeth is key to addressing issues effectively. These signs may include:
- Pain: One of the first and most noticeable signs of a wisdom tooth problem is pain. It can manifest as a dull, persistent ache at the back of the jaw, sudden sharp pain when biting, or even a throbbing sensation that can radiate to the ear and neck.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create openings in the gum where bacteria can enter and cause an infection, leading to swelling, redness, and a condition known as pericoronitis. This infection can spread and lead to more severe health issues if left untreated.
- Crowding: As wisdom teeth push their way into a crowded mouth, they can cause misalignment of the existing teeth. This crowding can undo years of orthodontic work or create a need for it.
- Decay: Wisdom teeth are notoriously difficult to clean due to their location. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay, both on the wisdom teeth themselves and on the adjacent second molars.
Risk Factors and Complications
What else can happen if you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed? Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a range of complications that extend beyond discomfort and cosmetic concerns.
For example, the sac within the jawbone where wisdom teeth develop can fill with fluid. This will form a cyst that can damage the jawbone, teeth, and nerves. In rare cases, tumors (usually benign) can develop in association with impacted wisdom teeth, requiring more extensive surgical procedures. Impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to inflammation of the gums and the development of pockets between the teeth that harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of periodontal (gum) disease.
In other cases, the pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can cause resorption of adjacent teeth, where the tooth root is eaten away. It can lead to cavities in neighboring teeth due to difficulty in maintaining proper oral hygiene around the impacted area.
Understanding these risks is crucial for all patients. Regular dental check-ups (including X-rays) can help identify potential problems with wisdom teeth before they become severe. By being aware of the signs of wisdom teeth complications, patients can take proactive steps to maintain their oral health.
When It’s Safe to Keep Wisdom Teeth
Keep in mind that removal is not always necessary. Just as some wisdom teeth may not grow properly, there is also a possibility that your teeth will emerge safely. With proper maintenance and hygiene, your wisdom teeth may not pose a threat to your oral health at all.
Proper Eruption and Alignment
When wisdom teeth grow with the correct alignment, they can function just as well as any other molars — all without negatively impacting your oral health. A properly erupted wisdom tooth has fully emerged through the gum line and aligned correctly with the opposing teeth, fitting well into the dental arch. In this ideal scenario, the wisdom tooth has enough room to grow without disturbing neighboring teeth or altering the bite. They can even contribute to the mouth's overall function, aiding in the chewing process while maintaining the structural integrity of the jaw.
Nevertheless, even when wisdom teeth erupt correctly, they still require attention and care. Regular monitoring by a dentist is crucial in ensuring that these teeth continue to coexist harmoniously with their neighbors. Dentists can track the progress of your wisdom teeth through visual examinations and X-rays, ensuring that any potential issues are identified early on. Should the need arise, this approach allows for timely interventions and helps maintain overall oral health.
Good Oral Hygiene and Maintenance
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for all teeth, including wisdom teeth. Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be more challenging to clean. Yet, neglecting them can lead to decay and gum disease. Here are some tips to keep those third molars healthy:
- Proper Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach the back of the mouth and gently brush around the wisdom teeth. An electric toothbrush with a small head can also be effective in navigating the tight spaces around these molars.
- Flossing: Flossing around wisdom teeth can be tricky but is necessary to remove plaque and food particles. Use a floss threader or picks designed for tight spaces to ensure you're effectively cleaning around the gums and between the teeth.
- Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in hard-to-reach areas around the wisdom teeth. Swishing thoroughly can help dislodge debris and provide an additional layer of protection against decay and gum disease.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings is vital. These visits allow for the removal of tartar buildup and provide an opportunity for your dentist to monitor the health of your wisdom teeth.
- Diet and Habits: A balanced diet that limits sugary or starchy foods can help protect your wisdom teeth from decay. Additionally, avoiding habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can promote better oral health, reducing the risk of complications.
By following these hygiene tips and maintaining a routine of regular dental care, you can help ensure that your wisdom teeth (and your entire mouth) remain healthy. Remember, even if your wisdom teeth are not causing immediate problems, they still deserve the same attention and care as the rest of your teeth.
How to Prepare for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Now that you know what happens when you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed, it’s time to explore the decision-making process. When it comes to wisdom teeth, each individual's situation is as unique as their smile. That's why seeking professional advice from a dentist is an essential step in determining the need for wisdom teeth removal. A dentist is not only your guide but also your partner in making informed decisions about your oral health.
A dentist's expertise is particularly important because they can help you weigh the benefits and risks of removal versus retention of your wisdom teeth. For some, removal might be a step to avoid future problems, while for others, it might be necessary due to current complications.
The consultation is also the perfect time to ask questions and express any concerns you may have about your wisdom teeth. Your dentist can provide detailed explanations and help you understand the potential outcomes of different treatment options. With their guidance, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your health priorities and personal preferences.
Make the Wise Choice with Lee Simon!
Whether your wisdom teeth require removal or regular maintenance, Dr. Lee Simon is here to ensure your oral health is at its very best. Contact our office today for a dental consultation — it’s the wise thing to do!