Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. However, unlike their predecessors, wisdom teeth frequently encounter problems emerging properly. A common issue is impaction, where the tooth grows sideways, at an angle, or becomes completely embedded within the jawbone. But why does this happen? The answer is complex and involves a combination of factors.
What Causes Wisdom Teeth to Grow Sideways?
Several factors contribute to the sideways growth, or impaction, of wisdom teeth:
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Lack of Space: This is the most common reason. Over millennia, human jaws have gradually shrunk, while the size of our teeth has remained relatively consistent. This means there's often insufficient space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to erupt normally. If there isn't enough room, the teeth can become impacted, growing at an angle or horizontally.
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Jaw Size and Shape: The size and shape of your jaw play a significant role. Individuals with smaller jaws or jaws that are not properly formed are more prone to impacted wisdom teeth. Genetic factors influence jaw development, explaining why impaction can run in families.
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Angle of Eruption: Even with sufficient space, the angle at which a wisdom tooth attempts to erupt can affect its growth. If the tooth emerges at an angle, it might get stuck against neighboring teeth or the jawbone.
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Adjacent Teeth: The presence of other teeth can physically block the eruption of wisdom teeth. If a wisdom tooth is trying to emerge but encounters resistance from an adjacent molar, it might become impacted.
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Position of the Tooth Bud: The way the wisdom teeth develop within the jawbone (tooth bud) before eruption can also influence their final position. An abnormally positioned bud can result in impacted growth.
Why Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth a Problem?
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause various problems, including:
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Pain and Swelling: The pressure from an impacted tooth can cause significant pain and swelling in the gums and jaw.
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Infection (Pericoronitis): The partially erupted portion of an impacted wisdom tooth can trap food and bacteria, leading to infection. This can result in painful swelling, gum inflammation, and even a bad taste in the mouth.
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Cysts and Tumors: In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can develop cysts or tumors around their roots, which can damage nearby teeth and jawbone.
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Damage to Adjacent Teeth: The pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can push against neighboring molars, causing damage or misalignment.
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Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can make it difficult to properly clean the area, leading to gum disease.
How Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth Treated?
The treatment for impacted wisdom teeth usually involves surgical extraction. This is a fairly common procedure and generally considered safe. The decision of whether or not to remove impacted wisdom teeth depends on several factors, including the degree of impaction, the presence of symptoms, and the overall health of the patient. A dentist or oral surgeon will assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
Can Wisdom Teeth Grow In Later in Life?
While most wisdom teeth erupt during late adolescence or early adulthood, it's possible for them to emerge later in life. This is less common, but not unheard of.
Are There Any Ways to Prevent Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Unfortunately, there's no guaranteed way to prevent impacted wisdom teeth. Genetic predisposition and jaw development play significant roles. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can help detect potential problems early.
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