Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Risks of Tooth Loss and Oral Health Concerns

Q: Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Risks of Tooth Loss and Oral Health Concerns

Hello： The definition of an impacted tooth is a tooth that is non-functional and cannot erupt normally; its removal does not count as tooth loss. <br>Are new teeth growing in deeper within the oral cavity? Is tooth loss causing excessive wear on other teeth? Is poor dental health

The possibility of tooth loss caused by impacted teeth?

I discovered that I had impacted teeth when I was around 20 years old.
I found out that I have two impacted teeth, both of which are wisdom teeth located in the lower jaw and closest to the inside.
Currently, these two teeth are the most posterior teeth in the lower jaw (meaning the last teeth).
I previously had X-rays taken, and it seems that both of these teeth are fully erupted and positioned horizontally.
Additionally, before discovering the impacted teeth, I had orthodontic treatment for both my upper and lower teeth.

Currently, I have already had one of the impacted wisdom teeth removed.
I am concerned that the removal of the impacted tooth, combined with the fact that I am now 20 years old and my teeth may no longer grow, could lead to tooth loss.
This might cause the remaining wisdom tooth to wear down more severely, or it could result in new teeth growing further inside the mouth, creating a gap from the removal of the impacted tooth that could lead to excessive wear on other teeth.

Furthermore, I am worried that this situation could negatively affect my overall dental health and potentially impact my nutritional intake.
(The remaining impacted tooth has not yet become impacted against other teeth.)

Weng Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/14

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: The definition of an impacted tooth is a tooth that is non-functional and cannot erupt normally; its removal does not count as tooth loss.
Are new teeth growing in deeper within the oral cavity? Is tooth loss causing excessive wear on other teeth? Is poor dental health affecting nutritional intake? None of these scenarios reflect the current situation, so it is not possible to respond to "hypothetical" or "speculative" questions.

Reply Date: 2023/08/14

More Info

Impacted wisdom teeth, or third molars, can pose several risks to oral health, especially when they are positioned horizontally or are partially erupted. Your concerns about the potential consequences of having impacted wisdom teeth and the implications of their removal are valid and warrant a thorough understanding.

Firstly, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various complications. When these teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly, they can cause crowding, misalignment of adjacent teeth, and even damage to neighboring roots. This misalignment can exacerbate existing dental issues, particularly if you have previously undergone orthodontic treatment. The pressure exerted by impacted teeth can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infections, which may necessitate their removal.

Regarding your specific situation, since you have already had one of your impacted wisdom teeth removed, it is important to monitor the remaining tooth. If the remaining wisdom tooth is not causing any pain or discomfort and is not impacted, it may not require immediate removal. However, regular dental check-ups and X-rays are essential to ensure that it does not develop complications over time.

One of your concerns is whether the removal of one wisdom tooth will lead to increased wear on the remaining teeth or the development of new teeth in the space left by the extracted tooth. Generally, when a tooth is removed, the surrounding teeth may shift slightly over time, but this is usually minimal if the remaining teeth are healthy and well-aligned. The body does not typically grow new teeth to fill in the gaps left by extractions, especially after the age of 20 when the jawbone and dental structures are fully developed. Therefore, it is unlikely that a new tooth will emerge in the space left by the extracted wisdom tooth.

However, the absence of a tooth can lead to changes in your bite and may affect how you chew, which could indirectly influence your overall oral health. If the remaining wisdom tooth is positioned in a way that it does not interfere with your bite, and if you maintain good oral hygiene, the risk of accelerated wear on your other teeth should be minimal.
It's also important to consider the nutritional aspect of your concerns. If you experience difficulties in chewing due to dental issues, it could potentially affect your diet and nutrition. Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for overall health, and if you find that dental problems are impacting your ability to eat certain foods, it may be beneficial to consult with a dentist or a nutritionist. They can provide guidance on how to adapt your diet to ensure you are receiving adequate nutrition while managing any dental issues.

In summary, while impacted wisdom teeth can pose risks to oral health, the removal of one tooth does not typically lead to significant complications if the remaining teeth are healthy. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene practices, and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining your oral health and overall well-being. If you have ongoing concerns about your dental health or the remaining wisdom tooth, it is advisable to consult with a dental professional who can provide personalized advice and treatment options.

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