Coming in third-place isn't a total loss...unless there are only three vying for the prize. Wisdom teeth are the perpetual third-place-finisher since they're also known as third molars and the last to emerge in the back of your mouth.
Wisdom teeth typically cross-the-finish-line during late adolescence or early adulthood around the ages of 17 to 25.
There's some mystery and lack of understanding relative to wisdom teeth. Their position on the oral health landscape gets more press when issues arise.
Before covering some of those issues and available solutions it could help to get acquainted with your wisdom teeth.
The purpose and position of wisdom teeth
You can thank your wisdom teeth for their dietary support. Their position in your mouth allows them to provide chewing support that can positively affect your digestive health.
Though supportive by design, their development timing can create space issues when they begin to emerge.
Wisdom teeth typically show up in your late teens or early twenties. Complications can occur when your mouth, jaw, or surrounding teeth aren't prepared to accommodate the growth of your wisdom teeth.
Common problems experienced by wisdom teeth
Impaction
Impacted wisdom teeth are basically the result of there not being enough space for them to fully emerge or develop properly.
When impaction occurs you could experience a variety of dental issues.
- Mouth, gum, and/or jaw pain
- Infection, cysts, or tumors
- Damage to surrounding teeth
- Tooth crowding
- Tooth misalignment
Misalignment
Problems occur when the size of your wisdom teeth override the available space in your jaw.
Again, impaction best defines this condition. The further issues associated with your wisdom teeth typically lead to their misalignment and a related effect on your adjacent teeth.
Misaligned wisdom teeth can push your other teeth out of alignment and cause ongoing pain and discomfort.
Not all wisdom teeth cause problems but when they do you have options.
Treatment solutions for problem wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth extraction
This is the most common solution to treat impacted, damaged, and problem wisdom teeth.
An extraction can provide:
- Relief from pain and discomfort
- Prevention of further complications to your jaw, gums, and surrounding teeth
Wisdom teeth monitoring
Some wisdom teeth issues might cause you more immediate problems. Ongoing monitoring as they develop can help you stay ahead of certain issues.
Monitoring can include:
- Routine check-ups
- X-rays
- Tracking the progress of your wisdom teeth and their proximity to your adjacent teeth
Wisdom teeth intervention care
On occasion your wisdom teeth can cause crowding or misalignment issues with your surrounding teeth. Orthodontic treatment could be recommended using appliances or braces to correct tooth positioning.
Pain management can also be an intervention option. The use of over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed oral rinses can help manage your symptoms until additional treatment is provided.
Wisdom teeth can be healthy and supportive when they emerge properly and receive proper oral care. Dental check-ups and early intervention are essential to ensure that your wisdom teeth are healthy and not causing additional dental issues.
There's an easy and convenient option when you have questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth or your oral health in general.
Connect with a licensed, online dentist.
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