Reasons You Need That Impacted Wisdom Tooth Removed

Posted on 9/16/2024 by Bryan Neu

3D rendered x-ray of an impacted wisdom tooth (highlighted in red) butting against the tooth next to it.

As your trusted dental expert, I want to discuss a common dental issue – impacted wisdom teeth. Many people have heard of wisdom teeth removal, but they may not understand why it's important. Let's look at the reasons why removing impacted wisdom teeth is crucial for maintaining good oral health.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last permanent teeth to erupt in the mouth, typically appearing in the late teens or early twenties. They are located at the back corners of the mouth, and in some cases, they erupt normally and function like any other tooth. However, often wisdom teeth become impacted, meaning they are unable to fully erupt due to lack of space or other factors.

Why are Impacted Wisdom Teeth a Problem?

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a range of problems, including:

•	Pain and Inflammation: Impacted teeth can put pressure on the surrounding teeth and jawbone, causing pain and inflammation. This can make it difficult to chew and open your mouth comfortably.
•	Infection: Impacted teeth are more prone to infection, as food and bacteria can easily become trapped under the gum flap covering the partially erupted tooth. This can lead to abscesses and other serious complications.
•	Damage to Other Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, causing them to become misaligned or damaged. This may necessitate orthodontic treatment or restorative dentistry to correct the damage.
•	Cyst Formation: In some cases, a fluid-filled sac called a cyst can develop around an impacted wisdom tooth. Cysts can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth, requiring surgical intervention.

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Removing impacted wisdom teeth can help prevent these problems and improve your overall oral health. By removing the impacted teeth, you can:

•	Eliminate Pain and Discomfort: Removing the impacted tooth will alleviate the pain and inflammation caused by the pressure it was putting on the surrounding tissues.
•	Prevent Infection: Removing the impacted tooth eliminates the risk of infection developing around the tooth.
•	Protect Your Other Teeth: By removing the impacted tooth, you prevent it from damaging your other teeth.
•	Improve Oral Hygiene: Removing the impacted tooth makes it easier to clean your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene.

When to See a Dentist

If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or other symptoms associated with impacted wisdom teeth, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will examine your teeth and take X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of treatment.

Conclusion

While removing impacted wisdom teeth may seem like a significant procedure, it is often necessary to prevent potential problems and maintain good oral health. By understanding the reasons behind wisdom teeth removal, you can make informed decisions about your dental care. Remember, preventive care is always the best approach to maintaining a healthy smile.

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