Last Updated on January 17, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Many people’s wisdom teeth either partially or completely fail to erupt through the gum. At least one wisdom tooth in up to 80% of young adults has not yet broken through. In the lower jaw, it occurs more frequently than in the upper jaw. The cause of this is typically a lack of space in the jaw. The wisdom tooth may then obstruct other teeth. Such wisdom teeth that do not emerge can occasionally cause pain, swelling, tooth decay, or inflamed gums. However, not everyone requires the removal of their wisdom teeth if there are no established health advantages to removing wisdom teeth that aren’t causing issues. This article discusses the different types of impactions, the risks of leaving an impacted wisdom tooth untreated, and the possibility of having wisdom teeth removed in later life.
What kinds of impactions do wisdom teeth cause?
Fully submerged wisdom teeth are not visible. They are entirely concealed, under your gums. A wisdom tooth that is partially impacted can be seen because some of it has partially emerged. Wisdom teeth that are not impacted have fully erupted and are visible above your gum line. It’s crucial to remember that even wisdom teeth that are not impacted can cause issues.
Are there any risks involved in not treating an impacted wisdom tooth?
Yes, third molars, or wisdom teeth, can result in a number of issues, particularly if they become impacted or lodged inside the jaw. Despite the fact that some people report pain, other complications related to wisdom teeth may initially go undetected. They frequently progress silently and gradually, and by the time symptoms do appear, significant harm has already been done.
The main issues could be pain, discomfort, deep cavities, misalignment, bad breath, jaw stiffness, cyst formation, pericoronitis, and even oral infections, even though it is typically impossible to predict the symptoms that could manifest with the retention of the wisdom tooth.
What might happen if the wisdom tooth is extracted later in life?
For adults over the age of 50, removing the impacted wisdom tooth may be difficult. You are still able to take advantage of the results, though. However, as people age, their bone density increases relative to that of children, the healing process takes longer, and there is a higher risk of postoperative bleeding, infection, and nerve damage. As a result, tooth removal in later life involves a more involved procedure.
By maintaining a good oral hygiene regimen and scheduling routine dental visits, older adults can reduce these complications. The dentist can identify developing problems as early as possible with routine checkups. This attention to detail can also lessen age-related surgical risks or the need for extractions altogether.
You should share any changes to your health, including any new conditions, medications, or supplements you may be taking with your dentist. A dentist can better tailor your treatment and recovery plan if they have a complete picture of your health. This ensures your preparation for a wisdom tooth extraction and speeds up your recovery.
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