Wisdom teeth are often notorious for the problems they cause when they start erupting. Many people have them removed while they are in their late teens and early twenties, but why are they often an issue? That’s because these third molars can come in sideways for some individuals. Here’s more about why this can happen and why having them removed can protect your oral health.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Erupt Sideways for Some People?
Your wisdom teeth come in much later compared to the rest of the adult teeth. When they do, there’s usually not enough room for them in the mouth. The limited space can make them grow sideways and stay beneath the gumline. If you struggle with misalignment, then this can be the cause as well. The third molars can collide with the roots of the neighboring teeth and shift them.
Are Sideways Wisdom Teeth an Issue?
A few people don’t have any issues with their wisdom teeth, but when they erupt at an angle, it can be a problem and cause multiple complications, such as:
- Damage to the rest of your smile or pressure that moves it.
- Persistent, significant discomfort.
- Inflammation of the gums, which can turn into pericoronitis. This is an infection and swelling of the soft tissues.
- A cyst can form that can lead to more pain or damage to your jawbone.
- Trouble brushing and flossing back there in your mouth, increasing your risk of cavities.
What Should You Do If Your Wisdom Teeth Are Sideways?
If your dentist sees that your wisdom teeth are erupting sideways, they will likely recommend an extraction. It’s often best to get this procedure sooner rather than later; that way, you can put a stop to the issue and prevent further complications.
Thankfully, the procedure itself is relatively simple. If the structure was able to emerge past the gumline, then your mouth will be numbed and given dental sedation, a special dental elevator will lift your tooth, and it will be wiggled free. If it’s still covered by your gums, then a small incision will be made to expose and access the tooth. It may be removed in one piece, but a few patients may need it to be divided into sections.
No matter what, your dentist is here to make this treatment as easy as possible. By having a consultation with them, you can learn whether your third molars will be an issue and find out the next steps. That way, your oral health stays protected.
About the Author
Dr. Gus Bal earned his dental degree from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He is dedicated to helping patients in Nepean get the stronger smiles they deserve with a wide range of treatments. While an extraction, like removing your wisdom teeth, may not sound too appealing, Dr. Bal works to make the process comfortable with state-of-the-art instruments and dental sedation. If you are worried about your third molars, schedule an appointment or call his office at 613-228-8768.