Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Should You See a Dentist for Extraction?

Q: Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Should You See a Dentist for Extraction?

Hello： If you are over the age of 25, it is unlikely that your wisdom teeth, which are the third molars, will erupt. <br>They do not serve a chewing function. <br>Unless the teeth are positioned very straight or if the second molars are missing, it may be worth keeping them. <br>

Impacted wisdom teeth?

Hello Doctor: I have a wisdom tooth growing on the left and right back of my lower jaw, but it has only partially erupted and seems to be stuck.
The other parts are still buried under the gums, and it's difficult to brush in that area.
Is there a possibility that these wisdom teeth will fully erupt? Should I see a dentist for extraction? Thank you for your response.

Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/10

Dr. Yang Zhiren reply Dentistry

Hello: If you are over the age of 25, it is unlikely that your wisdom teeth, which are the third molars, will erupt.
They do not serve a chewing function.
Unless the teeth are positioned very straight or if the second molars are missing, it may be worth keeping them.
However, wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, which can lead to inflammation and affect the anterior teeth, causing cavities and periodontal disease.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for evaluation and possible extraction.
Dr.
Yang Chih-Jen, Director of Dentistry at Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2010/08/10

More Info

When it comes to impacted wisdom teeth, it is essential to understand the potential implications for your oral health and overall well-being. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, many people experience complications with these teeth, particularly when they do not have enough space to grow properly. This can lead to a variety of issues, including pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.

In your case, you mentioned that your lower wisdom teeth have only partially erupted and are partially buried beneath the gums. This condition is known as impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to several problems, including:
1. Pain and Discomfort: If the wisdom teeth are pushing against neighboring teeth or are causing pressure in the jaw, this can lead to significant discomfort.

2. Infection: Partially erupted teeth can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections that may require antibiotics or further dental intervention.

3. Cysts and Tumors: In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors in the jaw, which can damage the surrounding bone and teeth.

4. Crowding: If the wisdom teeth are trying to erupt but lack space, they can push against adjacent teeth, causing misalignment and crowding.

Given these potential complications, it is advisable to consult with a dentist or an oral surgeon. They can perform an examination, which may include X-rays, to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if extraction is necessary.
In many cases, dentists recommend the removal of impacted wisdom teeth, especially if they are causing pain or have the potential to cause future problems. The extraction procedure is typically straightforward and can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the extraction.

It is also worth noting that waiting too long to address impacted wisdom teeth can lead to more complicated procedures and longer recovery times. Therefore, if you are experiencing discomfort or if your dentist recommends it, it is wise to consider extraction sooner rather than later.

In summary, if your wisdom teeth are impacted and causing issues, it is advisable to see a dentist for an evaluation. They can provide you with the best course of action tailored to your specific situation. Taking proactive steps to address potential dental issues can help maintain your oral health and prevent complications down the line.

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