Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically make their grand appearance in our late teens or early twenties. For some, the experience is smooth and uneventful. However, for many, wisdom teeth can cause a host of problems if left unattended, particularly when they emerge improperly or there isn’t enough room for them in the jaw. Ignoring problematic wisdom teeth can lead to a series of complications that affect your oral health and even your overall well-being. Below, we’ll explore what happens when these troublesome teeth are left untreated and why addressing the issue promptly matters.
Pain and Discomfort Become a Daily Issue
One of the first signs that wisdom teeth are causing issues is recurring pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth. This could range from a dull ache to sharp, shooting pain. Often, this discomfort happens because the wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gums or growing in at an awkward angle. Over time, the pressure caused by impacted wisdom teeth can worsen, radiating pain to nearby teeth, the jaw, and even the ears and head.
Risk of Infection or Gum Disease
When wisdom teeth don’t properly erupt through the gums, they create pockets where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate. This buildup often leads to infections like pericoronitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth. Symptoms can include swelling, pain, bad breath, and difficulty chewing. Left untreated, this condition can advance into more serious gum diseases, impacting your overall oral health.
Crowding or Damage to Other Teeth
Wisdom teeth that grow in crooked or at an angle can exert pressure on neighboring teeth, resulting in crowding. This misalignment not only affects the aesthetics of your smile but can also undo years of orthodontic work if you’ve previously worn braces. Additionally, the pressure can wear down nearby teeth and damage them over time. Removing problematic wisdom teeth eliminates this risk and helps to maintain proper spacing in your mouth.
Development of Cysts or Other Complications
An impacted wisdom tooth can sometimes form a cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac that develops near the tooth. While this might sound harmless, these cysts can grow larger, damage the jawbone, and harm adjacent teeth and nerves. Though rare, untreated cysts may require more extensive surgical procedures to repair the damage. Addressing wisdom tooth problems early on can help prevent these kinds of complications from developing in the first place.
Long-Term Health Implications
The problems caused by wisdom teeth aren’t just confined to your mouth. Chronic pain and infection can weaken your immune system over time. Additionally, severe infections stemming from untreated wisdom teeth can spread to other parts of the body. For instance, an untreated oral infection could reach the bloodstream or even harm organs if ignored. This highlights why taking action when you experience wisdom tooth problems is an essential part of overall health care.
Why Acting Early Is Key
The presence of painful or problematic wisdom teeth is not something you should put off addressing. Regular dental checkups can help identify issues early, allowing for a straightforward extraction procedure before complications develop. Ignoring the problem only makes it more likely that you’ll face infections, increased discomfort, and a more complicated removal process later. Working with an experienced dental provider, such as the team at Ocala Dental Care, can ensure that you get the care you need while maintaining your oral and overall health.
Final Thoughts
Wisdom teeth can feel like a minor nuisance at first, but when ignored, they often lead to major complications. Whether it’s pain, infections, or longer-term impacts on your dental health, removing problematic wisdom teeth before they escalate is the best course of action. Don’t wait for the pain to grow unbearable before seeing a dentist. A timely visit can make all the difference in preserving your smile and your health.
