Wisdom teeth are the final molars to grow in, typically in the late teenage years or early 20s. Some people’s wisdom teeth emerge without any complications. Many people are affected, which means their teeth do not fully grow or erupt in the right position. In such cases, it is often advised to consider wisdom teeth removal to maintain good oral health.
At Clove Dental Sherman Oaks, we frequently hear patients ask, “Can I just leave my impacted wisdom teeth alone?” The answer is yes, it may cause a range of problems. Let’s explore the consequences of not extracting impacted wisdom teeth and why early intervention is important.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth are wisdom teeth that can’t grow starting from the gums. This can mean they remain embedded in the jaw, are slanted or partly erupted. They are more difficult to clean and keep an eye on because they are located at the end of the jaw.
It’s true that some impacted teeth don’t initially cause symptoms, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they are not a problem. In some cases, problems may start to develop gradually, and get worse the longer you wait to have your wisdom teeth removed.
Increased Risk of Infection
The most common issue with impacted wisdom teeth is infection. Partially erupted teeth cause a pocket of gum tissue to form, which can become infected. This is called pericoronitis and can cause:
- Red and swollen gums
- Pain when chewing
- Bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Difficulty opening the mouth
If left untreated and unremoved, this infection can spread to other areas, which is why timely wisdom teeth removal is often recommended to prevent further complications.
Damage to Nearby Teeth
Wisdom teeth can push against the molars next to them. This can lead to damage such as:
- Wear or erosion of adjacent teeth
- Increased risk of cavities between teeth
- Misalignment of your bite
We have patients who have required more complicated procedures due to delaying wisdom tooth extraction. Early intervention is important for preserving other teeth.
Risk of Cysts and Other Issues
Impaction of wisdom teeth may result in the development of cysts. A cyst is a bag of fluid that forms around the tooth. It may not initially cause pain, but it can destroy bone, nerves, or teeth over time.
Less commonly, cysts expand and require more complicated procedures. These issues can often be avoided with regular monitoring and timely wisdom teeth removal.
Chronic Pain and Discomfort
While pain may start out mild, impacted wisdom teeth eventually cause ongoing pain. This may include:
- Jaw stiffness
- Headaches
- Ear pain
- Pain in the back of the mouth
These pain sensations can be intermittent, so it’s easy to overlook them. But they generally indicate an underlying condition that will not go away. Often, this pain is relieved by having the wisdom teeth removed.
Gum Disease and Tooth Decay
Impacted wisdom teeth are hard to keep clean, which can lead to a build-up of bacteria. And this can result in:
- Gum disease (periodontitis)
- Cavities in the wisdom tooth and other teeth
- Bone loss around the affected area
It can be difficult to clean these areas even in patients with good oral hygiene. That’s why we often recommend early wisdom teeth removal to prevent these issues from developing or worsening.
Misalignment of Teeth
Wisdom teeth can cause your other teeth to move, particularly if your jaw is small. This could reverse treatment results from orthodontists or cause the front teeth to become crowded.
Although not all impacted teeth will shift, the longer you wait the greater the risk. Early identification and wisdom teeth extraction can help keep your smile straight.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
We take a preventative approach at Clove Dental Sherman Oaks. During routine dental appointments and X-rays, we can assess the growth of your wisdom teeth. Even when they are not causing symptoms, we can detect early signs of problems.
Wisdom teeth removal early can be less complicated and healing can be quicker. Recovery is also less painful for young patients.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal
Oral surgery can be daunting to many patients. But thanks to new techniques, wisdom tooth extraction is painless and common.
Here’s what you can expect
- Careful examination and X-rays before your wisdom tooth is removed.
- Options for local anesthesia or sedation.
- A well-executed procedure to reduce pain.
- Thorough after-care to promote healing.
We strive to make the experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. We provide all the important information to you.
Recovery and Aftercare
Wisdom tooth extractions usually require a few days to a week for recovery. Many people can resume their usual activities soon.
Tips to speed recovery include
- Eating a soft diet to start
- Cleaning the area as instructed
- Resting for many days
- Taking painkillers as advised
We’ll be on hand to discuss any concerns and monitor your recovery.
When Should You Consider Removal?
While not all wisdom teeth must be removed, here are some signs you may need to
- Persistent pain or swelling.
- Difficulty opening your mouth.
- Repeated infections.
- Damage to nearby teeth.
- Signs of cysts.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, please contact us. Early wisdom teeth removal can help stop future complications and protect your overall oral health.
Conclusion
Letting impacted wisdom teeth go untreated might not hurt at first, and it’s easy to ignore when everything feels fine. But honestly, the problems don’t just disappear; they build up, leading to infections, decay, and even lasting pain and damage.
At Clove Dental Sherman Oaks, we really care about keeping your mouth healthy and comfortable for the long haul. We take the time to check out your wisdom teeth early, and if we recommend wisdom teeth removal, we’ll walk you through the process and help you avoid any complications down the road.
If you’re feeling unsure about your wisdom teeth, or you’re starting to notice things like pain or swelling, don’t wait. Getting answers early makes a big difference, and we’re here to help you keep your smile healthy.