Wisdom teeth are located at the very back of the mouth, usually emerging between the ages of 14-30, with some individuals never developing them. While many people experience the proper eruption of wisdom teeth without issues, others may face complications that necessitate intervention to prevent future problems. Problematic wisdom teeth that are left untreated can result in tooth decay, pain, occlusion problems and gum disease. It is important to seek treatment for problematic wisdom teeth as soon as possible.
Insufficient space in the rear of the mouth can impede the proper growth of wisdom teeth, leading to various issues. Partial eruption, where wisdom teeth emerge only partially through the gums, may cause crowding problems, gum infections, cavities and severe pain. Wisdom teeth may also grow in unconventional directions, causing crowding and damage to adjacent second molars. Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is not enough room for proper eruption, causing them to be trapped in the gums. Impacted teeth can create a fertile environment for bacterial growth, leading to gum infections with symptoms of pain, swelling, discomfort and illness.
Fortunately, dentists can often anticipate potential issues and may recommend the removal of wisdom teeth before problems arise, preventing the need for more complex and costly surgical procedures in the future. If you have concerns or questions about your wisdom teeth, please reach out to the My Family Dental team at (403) 995-9544. We are here to assist you!