2 Reasons to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted
Posted on: 29 February 2016
Share
Wisdom teeth are the molars in the very back of your mouth. They tend to be the last to erupt. For many people, wisdom teeth never fully erupt so the crowns of the teeth are not fully presented above the gum line. There are multiple reasons to have your wisdom teeth removed. Here are two of them:
Pericoronitis
Pericoronitis is a condition that is caused by the inflammation of the gums surrounding the wisdom teeth. It normally occurs when food or other debris becomes trapped between the gums and the wisdom teeth.
When wisdom teeth don't fully erupt from the gums, sometimes a pocket forms. This pocket becomes a hiding place for food particles, plaque and oral bacteria. As the debris accumulates between the gums and the wisdom tooth, bacteria continues to multiply. An infection can result, causing the gums to swell and become irritated.
Pain and tenderness are usually felt in the area of the inflammation. The dental patient may find it difficult to chew or apply any pressure in that region. Sometimes, an oral irrigator can be used to help keep the pockets clear of debris. However, once the gums become inflamed and the infection presents, it is often best to have the condition treated by a dentist. He or she can thoroughly clean the pocket and even snip away some of the overhanging gum. Still, there may be enough material left for the condition to recur unless the wisdom tooth is extracted.
Misalignment
Sometimes, a wisdom tooth does not grow in straight. It may present at an odd angle, and the roots of the tooth may be slanted beneath the gums. Since the tooth is not straight, it may not be able to fully erupt. The slanted development can impact the other teeth in your mouth.
The slanted tooth can place undue pressure on adjacent teeth, causing them to shift out of alignment. Pressure on the teeth may be felt as a constant ache toward the back of the mouth. Even if orthodontic solutions, such as braces, are used to correct the crooked teeth, they may shift again if the wisdom tooth remains in place.
If you still have your wisdom teeth and are considering having them extracted, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area. Even if the teeth are not currently causing any problems, they may be difficult to clean and care for properly due to their location in the mouth.