Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in a person’s mouth. They typically start to develop in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth may have been useful to our ancestors, who had larger jaws and regularly lost teeth. However, as our jaws have become smaller over time, wisdom teeth often do not have enough space to grow properly.
If left in too long, wisdom teeth can cause various issues. One common problem is impaction, where the teeth do not fully emerge from the gums. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. In some cases, the impacted wisdom teeth may push against the adjacent teeth, causing them to shift and become misaligned.
Other complications that can arise from leaving wisdom teeth in too long include tooth decay, gum disease, and cysts. Due to their location at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are challenging to clean properly, making them more susceptible to decay and gum problems. Furthermore, cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs, can form around the impacted teeth and cause damage to the surrounding bone and teeth.
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, about 85% of people will eventually need to have their wisdom teeth extracted. In fact, the most common oral surgery performed in young adults is the removal of these troublesome third molars.
The extraction of wisdom teeth is typically recommended in cases where they are causing pain, infection, or other dental problems. Additionally, some dentists and oral surgeons suggest proactive removal of wisdom teeth even if they are not currently causing issues, as a preventive measure.
Leaving wisdom teeth in too long can lead to various complications and dental problems. Regular dental check-ups and consultations with a dental professional can help determine the best course of action and prevent potential issues from arising.
What Are the Consequences of Delaying Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Delaying the extraction of your wisdom teeth can lead to various complications and oral health issues. Leaving your wisdom teeth in for too long can result in overcrowding, misalignment, infection, decay, and even damage to nearby teeth and bone structures. To understand the full extent of these consequences and how they can impact your oral health, continue reading the following sections.
What happens if you leave your wisdom teeth in too long?
Leaving your wisdom teeth in for too long can lead to various oral health issues and complications. These third molars typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25 and often require removal due to several reasons.
Impacted wisdom teeth
One common problem associated with leaving wisdom teeth in for an extended period is impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for them to fully erupt or develop properly. This can result in the teeth becoming partially or fully trapped within the gums or jawbone.
In such cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth. They may also lead to the formation of cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that can damage the surrounding bone and tissues.
Crowding of surrounding teeth
Leaving wisdom teeth in for too long can also cause crowding of the surrounding teeth. Since there may not be enough space in the mouth for the additional teeth, the wisdom teeth can push against the neighboring teeth, forcing them out of alignment.
This crowding can lead to various orthodontic issues, such as crooked teeth, overlapping of teeth, or even teeth becoming impacted. It may require orthodontic treatment, like braces or aligners, to realign the teeth and correct the misalignment caused by the wisdom teeth.
Increased risk of decay and gum disease
Another consequence of leaving wisdom teeth in for too long is an increased risk of decay and gum disease. Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean effectively.
Their position and limited accessibility make them more prone to bacterial buildup and plaque accumulation. This can eventually lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. The presence of gum disease can cause inflammation, swelling, and discomfort in the surrounding gum tissues.
Higher incidence of infections
When wisdom teeth are not removed, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and infections. The partially erupted or impacted nature of these teeth creates pockets where food particles, plaque, and bacteria can accumulate.
This accumulation can result in the development of infections, such as pericoronitis, which is the inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth. Symptoms of pericoronitis include pain, swelling, bad breath, and difficulty in opening the mouth.
Increased chance of oral tumors
Research suggests a link between leaving wisdom teeth in for too long and an increased risk of developing oral tumors. While this association requires further exploration, it highlights the potential serious consequences of not removing wisdom teeth in a timely manner.
According to a study published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, individuals who retained their impacted wisdom teeth had a higher incidence of oral tumors compared to those who had their wisdom teeth extracted.
It is important to consult with a dental professional to assess the need for wisdom tooth extraction, especially if the teeth are causing discomfort or show signs of complications. Early intervention can prevent these potential problems and maintain optimal oral health.
FAQ
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What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the dental arch. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25.
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Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth often cause problems due to their size and position in the mouth. They can become impacted, meaning they are unable to fully emerge, causing pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.
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What happens if you leave your wisdom teeth in too long?
If wisdom teeth are left in too long without removal, they can cause various issues such as overcrowding, misalignment of the teeth, damage to adjacent teeth, cyst formation, gum disease, and infections.
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How can I tell if my wisdom teeth need to be removed?
You may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, bad breath, a persistent bad taste, or redness and swelling of the gums. A dental professional can evaluate your wisdom teeth through X-rays and determine if they should be removed.
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Is it necessary to remove all four wisdom teeth?
In some cases, it may be necessary to remove all four wisdom teeth to prevent any potential future problems. However, the decision depends on factors like the position of the teeth, the shape of the jaw, and the patient’s oral health.
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What is the appropriate age to have wisdom teeth removed?
The appropriate age for wisdom teeth removal varies for each individual. It is generally recommended to have them evaluated by a dentist or oral surgeon in the late teenage years to early twenties, as this is when problems commonly arise.
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Does wisdom teeth removal require surgery?
Removing impacted wisdom teeth typically requires a surgical procedure. The complexity of the surgery depends on factors such as the position of the teeth and the extent of impaction.
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What is the recovery process after wisdom teeth removal?
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal commonly involves swelling, discomfort, and mild bleeding. It is important to follow post-operative instructions provided by the dentist or oral surgeon, including proper oral hygiene, eating soft foods, avoiding straws, and taking prescribed medications.
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Are there any risks or complications associated with wisdom teeth removal?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, although they are rare. Risks may include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, sinus problems, and bleeding issues. Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
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Can I delay wisdom teeth removal if I am not experiencing any problems?
It is important to consult with a dental professional for an evaluation even if you are not currently experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth. They can provide guidance based on your specific dental condition and advise you on whether or not removal is necessary.
Conclusion
Overall, leaving your wisdom teeth in for too long can lead to a range of dental issues and potential complications. The key points covered in this article include the potential for overcrowding, infection, and impaction if wisdom teeth are not extracted in a timely manner. Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to properly emerge, leading to misalignment and shifting of the other teeth. This can cause bite problems, pain, and difficulty in oral hygiene maintenance.
Furthermore, wisdom teeth that are impacted, or trapped beneath the gum line, can become a breeding ground for bacteria and infection. This can result in gum inflammation, pain, swelling, and even the development of cysts or tumors in severe cases. It is important to note that these complications may not always be immediately evident, and long-term consequences may arise if wisdom teeth are left in for too long.
In conclusion, the potential risks and complications associated with leaving wisdom teeth in for an extended period highlight the importance of timely extraction. Regular dental check-ups and consultations with an oral surgeon are essential to monitor the growth and position of wisdom teeth and determine the need for extraction. By being proactive and seeking appropriate dental care, individuals can avoid unnecessary discomfort, oral health issues, and potential long-term complications.