Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Do They Cause Problems for Your Molars?

The lower wisdom tooth causes the second molar to tilt inward?

Hello Doctor ^_^ Last year, I visited several dental clinics to correct my teeth.
One of the clinics took a full-mouth X-ray, and the dentist informed me that my wisdom teeth have not erupted yet, but the lower wisdom teeth on both sides are causing the second molars to tilt inward (toward the tongue).
I'm not sure if my wisdom teeth are horizontal or in a normal position.
I plan to start orthodontic treatment soon, so I won't be seeing a dentist in the near future.
Currently, my wisdom teeth and molars do not hurt, but I am very concerned about whether the wisdom teeth could cause cavities in my molars or lead to other issues.
Does the absence of pain mean that my teeth are fine? Is there a need to extract my wisdom teeth at this stage? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Emma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/07

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Ms.
Emma,
Hello! Generally speaking, if the wisdom teeth are horizontally positioned or mesially inclined, they should be extracted, as visible on X-rays.
Please communicate more with your dentist! Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2017/02/07

More Info

Impacted wisdom teeth can indeed pose problems for your molars, even if you are currently not experiencing any pain. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. When they do not have enough space to grow properly, they can become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum line or in the jawbone. This can lead to a variety of dental issues, particularly affecting the adjacent molars.

In your case, the fact that your wisdom teeth have not yet erupted does not mean they are not causing problems. As you mentioned, your second molars are already tilting inward towards your tongue. This misalignment can be attributed to the pressure exerted by the impacted wisdom teeth. Over time, this can lead to further complications, including:
1. Cavities: The angle at which your second molars are tilting can create spaces that are difficult to clean, making them more susceptible to cavities. If food particles and plaque accumulate in these areas, it can lead to decay.

2. Gum Disease: Impacted wisdom teeth can also contribute to gum disease. The inflammation and infection that can arise from impacted teeth can affect the surrounding gums, leading to periodontal issues.

3. Crowding: If your wisdom teeth eventually erupt, they may push against your existing teeth, causing further misalignment and crowding. This can complicate any orthodontic work you may undergo.

4. Pain and Discomfort: While you are not currently experiencing pain, impacted wisdom teeth can become painful over time, especially if they become infected or if they start to push against neighboring teeth.

5. Cyst Formation: In some cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

Given these potential issues, it is advisable to consult with a dentist or an oral surgeon about the status of your wisdom teeth. They may recommend monitoring the situation with regular X-rays to assess any changes over time. If your wisdom teeth are indeed impacted and causing your second molars to tilt, extraction may be the best course of action to prevent further complications.

It's important to note that the absence of pain does not necessarily indicate that there are no problems. Many dental issues can develop silently, and regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection and intervention. If you are planning to undergo orthodontic treatment, addressing the status of your wisdom teeth beforehand can help ensure a smoother process and better long-term results.

In summary, while your current lack of pain is a positive sign, it does not eliminate the possibility of future problems arising from your wisdom teeth. Consulting with a dental professional will provide you with the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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