The wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to come in, usually emerging in the late teens or early twenties. While some people are fortunate enough to have them emerge normally and healthily, many others experience complications that require these teeth to be extracted. When the wisdom teeth do not emerge from the gums properly, they are considered impacted, and in some cases they can fail to emerge at all, instead growing horizontally in a position parallel to the jawbone. Here’s why this can happen and why it usually makes extractions necessary.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Come In Sideways?
In prehistoric times, humans had bigger mouths that could accommodate the emergence of wisdom teeth. These third molars also played a much bigger role in the digestive process, as food was often consumed raw due to a limited ability to cook. The wisdom teeth made it easier for primitive humans to grind up raw plant fiber and animal tissue. However, thousands of years of cooking food have led to human mouths becoming smaller on average, making them often unable to accommodate wisdom teeth today.
What Complications Can Sideways Wisdom Teeth Cause?
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of health complications, including:
- Dental injuries: Impacted wisdom teeth can force other teeth out of alignment, making them more easily injured and more difficult to clean. This makes them more vulnerable to infections that can lead to tooth loss.
- Pain: The pressure created by improperly positioned wisdom teeth can cause a patient constant pain. If you notice pain around your molars but don’t see any new teeth erupting, it may be because your wisdom teeth are impacted.
- Gum disease: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to inflammation, swelling, and infections of the gums.
Why Should I Do If I Suspect I Have Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
If your wisdom teeth seem to be giving you more trouble than they’re worth, it’s important to see your dentist to have the situation evaluated. If these molars are impacted and likely to become infected, your dentist will probably recommend having them extracted. This will relieve the pain they cause and set you up for a future of better dental health.
About the Author
Dr. Khushboo Gandhi completed the Advanced Education program for international dentists at the Oklahoma College of Dentistry and continues to expand her skillset with continuing education coursework. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Texas Dental Association. Her office in Murphey, TX offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as wisdom tooth extractions. If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth, contact her office online or dial (972) 532-6506.