The development of wisdom teeth typically commences around the age of nine, reaching full maturity between 18 and 21 years. During the late teens, the jawbone usually attains its adult size. However, this is where challenges arise, as the jaw often doesn’t have sufficient space to accommodate the emergence of fully developed wisdom teeth. Consequently, when these wisdom teeth begin to surface, the limited space can lead to various complications. 

In simpler terms, when wisdom teeth attempt to erupt in a crowded mouth, they exert pressure on already-erupted teeth, causing significant discomfort or pain. In some instances, wisdom teeth may adopt a sideways position, placing pressure on the roots of your rear molars. They can also induce shifts in the alignment of other teeth, particularly problematic if you’ve previously undergone orthodontic treatment. Regardless of the specific reason for their misalignment, we categorize these teeth as “impacted.” Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing the potential challenges associated with the emergence of wisdom teeth. 

The following types of complications with wisdom teeth can arise: 

• • Trapped: Wisdom teeth can become ensnared within the jawbone below the gumline, leading to aching and pain. Self-diagnosis is not possible, as the positioning of wisdom teeth requires the assistance of x-rays for accurate assessment. 
  • Sideways: If a wisdom tooth attempts to erupt but grows sideways, exerting pressure against the second molar, it results in significant discomfort and pain. This pressure can cause adjacent teeth to give way and shift position, potentially disrupting the alignment of all your teeth, not just those at the back of your mouth. 
  • Partially erupted: The crown of a wisdom tooth may only partially break through the gum, hindered by the already-erupted second molars. While this may not immediately exert pressure on neighboring teeth, the partially erupted tooth becomes challenging to clean and impossible to floss, leaving it vulnerable to serious decay and infection in the future. 
  • Misplaced: A wisdom tooth may remain within the bone with misshapen or misplaced roots, growing dangerously close to a sinus cavity. This misplacement can pose risks and complications that warrant careful consideration. 

When wisdom teeth become impacted, you may encounter various symptoms, and although you may not necessarily experience all of them, the following are likely: 

• • Tooth discomfort or Pain 
  • Shifting teeth 
  • Sore gums 
  • Face discomfort or pain 
  • Jaw discomfort or pain 
  • Reduced ability to open mouth 
  • Infection 
  • Swelling 
  • Gum disease 
  • Bad breath 
  • Cavities 
  • Jawbone cysts 

Curious about what the future holds for your wisdom teeth? While it’s challenging to predict if or when issues may arise, routine x-rays can offer valuable insights. Opting for removal at a younger age, before complications arise, not only facilitates smoother extractions but also significantly expedites the recovery process. Taking proactive steps early on can make the experience more manageable and promote a faster and smoother recovery for you. 

Are you wondering how we address impacted wisdom teeth? While it’s tricky to predict precisely when an impacted molar will cause problems, it eventually does. The key to sidestepping discomfort and complicated treatments requires x-rays. By identifying potential issues early, we can recommend the removal of wisdom teeth before complications set in. This preventive measure, a common oral surgery procedure, helps ensure a smoother experience for patients, minimizing the chances of discomfort and simplifying the overall treatment process. 

At High Point Dental, we’ve got a plan to steer your pearly not-so-wise wisdom teeth in the right direction. Call (905) 625-5751 today. New patients are always welcome!