Should You Extract Impacted Wisdom Teeth That Aren't Visible?

Do wisdom teeth need to be extracted if they haven't erupted?

Hello, doctor.
I previously had an X-ray at the dental clinic, and it was found that there is actually a wisdom tooth in the gum on the lower right side, but it seems to be impacted and not visible.
Should I have it extracted? I don't feel any discomfort, and the X-ray shows it is slightly tilted.
Can I leave it alone without any concerns? Thank you!

c, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/11

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Hello, based on the above situation, please maintain good oral hygiene.
If there is no pain at the moment, continue to monitor the situation.
It is advisable to visit a dentist for a check-up later.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/04/11

More Info

When it comes to impacted wisdom teeth that are not visible, the decision to extract them can be nuanced and should be based on several factors. Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not have enough space to emerge or develop normally. They can be partially or fully trapped beneath the gum line and may not be visible during a routine dental examination.

Factors to Consider
1. Symptoms: If you are not experiencing any pain, swelling, or other symptoms, it may be tempting to leave the impacted tooth alone. However, asymptomatic wisdom teeth can still pose risks, such as infection or damage to adjacent teeth.

2. Position and Angle: The angle at which the wisdom tooth is positioned can influence whether it will cause problems in the future. If the tooth is tilted or angled in a way that it could potentially damage neighboring teeth or lead to gum disease, extraction may be recommended.

3. Potential for Future Issues: Even if the tooth is currently asymptomatic, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to complications over time. These may include:
- Cysts or Tumors: Impacted teeth can lead to the development of cysts, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections.

- Crowding: As wisdom teeth attempt to erupt, they can push against adjacent teeth, causing misalignment or crowding.

4. Dental X-rays: Your dentist will likely recommend periodic X-rays to monitor the position of the impacted wisdom tooth. This can help in assessing any changes that may warrant extraction.

5. Age and Overall Dental Health: Younger patients tend to heal better and have fewer complications from surgery. If you are older, the risks associated with extraction may increase, but this should be weighed against the potential risks of leaving the tooth in place.

Recommendations
- Consultation with a Dentist or Oral Surgeon: It is essential to have a thorough discussion with your dentist or an oral surgeon. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation, including the position of the tooth, your dental history, and any potential risks.

- Monitoring: If the decision is made to leave the tooth in place, regular monitoring through dental check-ups and X-rays is crucial. This will help catch any potential issues early.

- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Whether you choose to extract the tooth or leave it, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is vital. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to prevent any complications.

In conclusion, while it may be possible to leave an impacted wisdom tooth that is not causing any immediate issues, it is essential to consider the potential long-term risks. Regular monitoring and consultation with dental professionals will help ensure that you make the best decision for your oral health.

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