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Wondering what happens if you don’t get your wisdom teeth out? Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. While many people have these teeth removed, you might wonder what happens if you don’t get your wisdom teeth out. Understanding the potential consequences can help you make an informed decision about your dental health.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars located at the back of your mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Often, there’s not enough space in the mouth for these teeth to emerge properly, leading to a variety of dental issues. This is why dentists frequently recommend their removal.
Potential Problems of Keeping Wisdom Teeth
Choosing not to remove wisdom teeth can lead to several common issues:
Impaction Impaction occurs when wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge or develop normally. Impacted wisdom teeth can grow at an angle, remain trapped within the jawbone, or partially emerge. This can cause significant discomfort and lead to more severe complications.
Overcrowding When there isn’t enough space for wisdom teeth, they can push against other teeth, causing overcrowding and misalignment. This can affect the alignment of your entire smile and interfere with orthodontic treatments like braces.
Infection Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create a flap of gum tissue where food particles and bacteria get trapped, leading to an infection called pericoronitis. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and difficulty opening your mouth. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause more severe health issues.
Cysts and Tumors Unerupted wisdom teeth can develop cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth. In rare cases, these cysts can become tumors, requiring more complex surgical interventions.
Tooth Decay and Gum Disease Wisdom teeth are located far back in the mouth, making them difficult to clean properly. This can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, not only affecting the wisdom teeth themselves but also the adjacent teeth and overall oral health.
When It’s Safe to Keep Wisdom Teeth
In some cases, it might be safe to keep your wisdom teeth. If your wisdom teeth are properly aligned, fully erupted, and not causing any discomfort or dental issues, your dentist may advise keeping them. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the health of your wisdom teeth and ensure they don’t cause problems in the future.
Conclusion
Not removing wisdom teeth can lead to several dental issues, including impaction, overcrowding, infection, cysts, and decay. It’s essential to consult with your dentist to evaluate your specific situation and make an informed decision about whether to keep or remove your wisdom teeth. Proactive dental care and regular monitoring can help maintain your oral health and prevent potential complications. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to seek professional dental advice. Your smile’s health and well-being depend on it, request an appointment today!