Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While they are a natural part of your dental development, they often cause complications that can impact your oral and overall health. Understanding these potential issues and addressing them early at Khanna Dentistry PC of Geneva is essential for maintaining a healthy smile.
The Basics of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that come in during late adolescence or early adulthood. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, many experience problems due to a lack of space in the mouth. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), nearly 90% of people will experience some form of wisdom tooth impaction. An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when there isn’t enough space for the tooth to emerge properly from the gums.
Oral Health Implications of Wisdom Teeth
An impacted wisdom tooth can lead to a variety of oral health problems, making it important to consult with a dentist for early intervention. Some potential complications include:
- Infection: When wisdom teeth are impacted, they are harder to clean, which can lead to infection.
- Damage to Surrounding Teeth: An impacted wisdom tooth can push against adjacent teeth, causing damage to them and potentially leading to tooth loss.
- Gum Disease: Poorly cleaned wisdom teeth can become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of gum disease.
Regular examinations with our dentist are crucial for identifying any issues with your wisdom teeth before they cause long-term damage.
Impact on Your Overall Health
While dental problems related to wisdom teeth are concerning, the impact can extend beyond your mouth. Infections caused by wisdom teeth can spread to the bloodstream, potentially leading to more serious conditions such as:
- Heart Disease: Oral bacteria can travel through the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart-related issues.
- Kidney and Organ Infections: If left untreated, oral infections from impacted wisdom teeth can affect vital organs.
Therefore, maintaining your oral health is important not only for your teeth but for your overall well-being.
Why Regular Examinations Matter
You might not feel any pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth, but that doesn’t mean they are in perfect health. Even if your wisdom teeth are coming in correctly, they can still be vulnerable to future infections or decay. For this reason, regular checkups are essential. During these visits, our dentist can assess the condition of your wisdom teeth using advanced imaging tools like panoramic x-rays or cone beam scans.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth can have a significant impact on your oral health, and when left unchecked, they can lead to serious complications. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing further problems. If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth or want to schedule a consultation, contact our office today. We’re here to help you maintain both your oral health and overall well-being.