Why Getting the Removal of Impacted Wisdom Teeth is Crucial for Your Oral Health
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth. These teeth can develop as early as 14 years old, but most commonly appear when a person is between 17 to 25 years old. However, not all people have enough space in their mouths to accommodate wisdom teeth; thus, these teeth can become impacted or concealed beneath the gums.
When wisdom teeth become impacted, they can cause several problems for your oral health. Here are some of the reasons why the removal of impacted wisdom teeth is crucial:
1. Preventing Infections
When you have an impacted wisdom tooth, the gum around it can become inflamed and swollen. This can create a small opening that can easily trap food and bacteria, leading to infections. Aside from the pain and discomfort that comes with infections, they can also cause gum disease, tooth decay, and even more severe complications like abscesses.
2. Avoiding Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes push other teeth out of position over time. This can cause crowding and changes in tooth alignment, which can affect your ability to bite and chew properly. Moreover, the shifting of the teeth can cause undue stress on your jaw and lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
3. Lowering Risk of Cysts and Tumors
In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can also cause cysts and tumors to develop. These growths are fluid-filled sacs which can become large enough to damage bone and other teeth within your jaw. If left untreated, these cysts and tumors can be difficult to remove and may require extensive surgery.
Conclusion
In summary, getting the removal of impacted wisdom teeth is crucial for your oral health. It can prevent infections, avoid the damage of adjacent teeth, and lower the risk of cysts and tumors. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your mouth or think that you may have impacted wisdom teeth, it is essential to visit your dentist to discuss treatment options. Your dentist can give you advice on the best course of action to take and recommend a skilled oral surgeon who can safely remove your impacted teeth.
