Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop, typically erupting in the late teens or early twenties. At Manassra Dental, our dentist, Dr. Ahmed Manassra, is known for his gentle approach to procedures like wisdom tooth extraction and warm, welcoming demeanor. His advanced surgical background and focus on patient comfort make our practice a top choice for San Jose, CA, patients who need wisdom teeth removal.
Many patients who still have their wisdom teeth ask, “Do I really have to remove them?” The answer can be complex and may vary with the individual. Read on to explore some of the most common consequences of leaving wisdom teeth intact.
When Wisdom Teeth Can’t Grow In
While some people have enough space for wisdom teeth to come in normally, many (or even most) do not. When wisdom teeth lack sufficient space to develop, they may become impacted. This essentially means that they can’t break through the gums or jawbone to erupt in the proper position. This can lead to several problems for your oral health.
Problems Wisdom Teeth Can Cause
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems such as:
Jaw Pain and Pressure
As impacted wisdom teeth attempt to erupt, they can place pressure on nearby teeth and bone. This often causes a dull ache that worsens when chewing or biting. The pain may radiate toward the jaw joint, making it uncomfortable to open or close your mouth fully.
Infection and Swelling
When wisdom teeth only partially erupt, they create small openings where bacteria can easily collect and multiply. This can cause a painful gum infection called pericoronitis. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and difficulty swallowing. Without treatment, the infection may spread to deeper tissues in the jaw or neck.
Tooth Decay in Neighboring Teeth
Partially visible wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, allowing plaque and food debris to accumulate. This buildup increases the risk of decay not only in the wisdom teeth themselves but also in the adjacent molars. Over time, cavities can form between the teeth, leading to sensitivity or infection that threatens healthy enamel and tooth structure.
Gum Disease and Inflammation
The tight spacing around erupting wisdom teeth makes flossing and brushing challenging, allowing bacteria to thrive beneath the gum line. This can result in persistent gum irritation and early-stage periodontal disease. Left untreated, gum inflammation can spread and compromise the bone that supports other teeth.
Cysts and Bone Damage
In severe cases, fluid-filled cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth. These cysts can gradually erode surrounding bone and damage neighboring tooth roots. Though rare, cysts that go untreated for long periods can cause significant jawbone loss and may require surgical repair.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Jose: Easier Than You Think!
With advanced training and 14 years of clinical experience, Dr. Manassra performs tooth removal safely and precisely, minimizing discomfort and recovery time. We offer a variety of sedation dentistry options to make the process calm and virtually painless. If you suspect your wisdom teeth are erupting or causing discomfort, schedule an appointment now.