If you’re experiencing pain and discomfort associated with your wisdom teeth, it may be a sign that something is amiss. Not only can these pesky molars lead to serious medical complications such as infections, cysts and tumors in some cases, but they can also cause misalignment of nearby teeth if not properly treated or removed.
From shifting of your lower jaw to changes in the way you bite down on food – impacted wisdom teeth can create a disturbance in how your teeth line up with one another if left unchecked.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the link between wisdom teeth and misalignment and discuss why it’s important to factor them into your overall dental plan.
What are wisdom teeth and what do they do?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually appear in your mouth during late teenage years or early adulthood.
They are located at the very back of your mouth and typically erupt at an angle, which is why they can be difficult to clean.
Many people do not have enough room in their mouths for wisdom teeth and this can cause them to become impacted, meaning they are unable to fully erupt.
When wisdom teeth are misaligned, crowding can occur and this can lead to a series of problems such as infection, cysts, tumors and more.
In addition to these medical issues, having improperly aligned wisdom teeth can also cause the other teeth in your mouth to become misaligned due to the lack of space.
So it’s important to pay attention if you experience any pain or discomfort in your mouth, as this could be an indication that something is wrong with your wisdom teeth.
A visit to a dentist can help determine what’s causing the problem and suggest the best course of action.
What are the consequences of having misaligned wisdom teeth?
Having misaligned wisdom teeth can lead to a range of consequences, such as overcrowding and shifting of other teeth.
This could cause you to experience discomfort and pain while chewing or even while speaking.
In addition, having misaligned wisdom teeth could make it difficult for you to properly clean your mouth since the back molars are often hard to reach with a toothbrush.
This can potentially lead to an increased risk of gum disease and other dental problems.
In some cases, misaligned wisdom teeth may even cause your jawline to shift, resulting in an uneven appearance.
When do wisdom teeth come in?
Wisdom teeth usually erupt between late teenage years and early adulthood, though this can vary from person to person.
It is important to pay attention to any signs of pain or discomfort in your mouth as this could be an indication that something is wrong with your wisdom teeth.
Your dentist can help determine what’s causing the problem and suggest the best course of action.
How can you treat or prevent misaligned wisdom teeth?
- Make sure to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day.
- Visit your dentist regularly so they can monitor the health of your wisdom teeth and spot any potential problems early on.
- If it is determined that your wisdom teeth are misaligned, your dentist may suggest having them extracted.
- After extraction, it is important to follow the dentist’s instructions for healing and care. This could include antibiotics or pain medications, as well as regular mouthwash rinses.
- If the misalignment of your wisdom teeth is severe enough, your dentist may suggest having braces or other orthodontic treatments to correct the alignment of your teeth.
Are there any risks associated with having wisdom teeth removed?
Yes, there are some risks associated with having your wisdom teeth removed.
The first step is to visit your dentist for an exam to determine if removal is necessary. Your dentist may then take x-rays and other imaging tests to get a better look at the position of your wisdom teeth and any potential complications that could arise from their removal.
Once your dentist has determined that the wisdom teeth need to be removed, they will discuss the procedure with you and describe any potential risks or side effects.
Common risks include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, dry socket (a condition where the blood clot in the empty tooth socket fails to form or gets dislodged), and changes in bite alignment.
Your dentist will also provide instructions on how to prepare for the procedure and what to expect afterwards, such as reduced pain and swelling. They may also prescribe antibiotics or medications to take before and after the surgery as a preventative measure.
It is important that you follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery and reduce your risk of potential complications from wisdom teeth removal.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort associated with your wisdom teeth, it is important to visit a dentist in order to determine whether or not they need to be removed. While there are some risks associated with the procedure, following the right steps before and after can help reduce the risk of experiencing any complications. With proper care and attention, you can ensure a smooth recovery and have your comfortable smile back in no time.
