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5 million Americans get their wisdom teeth removed every year, but whether the wisdom teeth removal services are necessary or not is still up for debate. The presence of wisdom teeth may not be a problem for some people and removal services can lead to unnecessary pain and discomfort.

While it’s true that wisdom teeth removal may not be necessary for all people, in some cases, the presence of the wisdom teeth can lead to further issues down the road for others. Every patient should have their situation assessed by a professional, like our team in McKinney, TX to see whether their wisdom teeth are coming out properly and whether it’s affecting surrounding areas. In some situations, our team will recommend that you schedule a wisdom teeth removal as soon as possible, as delays can lead to further complications, like the ones that we’ll explore below.

#1. Damage to Nearby Teeth

One of the first things that a dental professional will look at is whether wisdom teeth are impacting surrounding teeth. It’s not uncommon for wisdom teeth to push against the second molar that sits beside it. If this happens, the pressure from the wisdom teeth can damage the second molar and increase the risk of infection and other issues. It’s important to note that the wisdom teeth and the molars are already prone to infection because they’re located in a difficult-to-reach area and are harder to clean. It’s easy for food and bacteria to get trapped between the tooth and the gums. Furthermore, a lot of people will actually miss the wisdom teeth and the second molars when they are brushing.

If the wisdom teeth are pushing against nearby teeth, this can also cause a domino effect and push the second molars over. The second molars will then push against the teeth sitting beside them. This can lead to crowding of other teeth that may require orthodontic treatment and intervention later on. If there is even a sign that the wisdom teeth are pushing against surrounding teeth, most dental professionals in McKinney, TX will recommend scheduling a wisdom teeth removal service immediately. The goal is to lessen any impact that may occur.

#2. Cyst Formation

Have you noticed that there are cysts forming around the wisdom teeth and the surrounding area? Cysts are fluid-filled sacs. The cysts can be uncomfortable and painful depending on where they are located. These cysts can also get in the way. The cysts form within the jawbone, and they can damage not only the wisdom teeth but also the jawbone and the nerves. In some rare situations, a noncancerous tumor may even start to grow. In even rarer situations, the tumor can be cancerous.

Due to the implications of cyst formations, it’s crucial that you schedule a wisdom teeth removal as soon as possible. Depending on how large the cyst has grown as well as the severity of the damage, you might also need to get some of the surrounding tissues and bone removed as well.

#3. Pericoronitis

Another interesting complication that can arise from a failure to remove wisdom teeth is pericoronitis, also known as gum disease. It’s difficult for wisdom teeth to erupt and emerge properly. In many situations, the presence of wisdom teeth will put a lot of pressure on the surrounding gums. This, combined with how difficult it is to clean this area of your mouth, can lead to an increased risk of developing pericoronitis, which is a very painful, inflammatory gum condition that can put you out of commission for quite some time.

Some mild symptoms of pericoronitis include swollen gum tissues that may make it difficult for you to bite down in that area. You might also notice pus discharge as well. In some of the more severe cases, the swelling can affect a large part of the facial tissue, the lymph nodes in that area as well as the jawbone. The infection can spread into the throat and the neck and can even make it difficult for you to breathe or swallow. Depending on the severity of the condition, this could be a huge problem.

#4. Accelerated Decay

Last but not least, wisdom teeth are much more vulnerable and susceptible to decay. This might be due to the fact that these teeth are more difficult to clean and reach. Partially-impacted wisdom teeth have the highest risk of decay. Although you can treat the decay with fillings and more regular cleaning, the truth of the matter is that this is just a temporary solution. Since wisdom teeth are so vulnerable to decay, the problem will appear sooner or later again. Your best bet is to schedule a wisdom teeth removal service as soon as possible, as wisdom teeth are not necessary.

#5. Misaligned Bite

Depending on how the wisdom teeth have emerged and erupted, it may be responsible for bite misalignments that could cause additional problems like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Signs and symptoms of TMJ include locking of the joints, difficulties chewing, aching facial pain, and pain and tenderness of the jaw. The longer that TMJ is left untreated, the worse that it gets. Some people may even develop regular migraines because of the TMJ.

Wisdom teeth removal can correct the bite and treat this disorder. You’ll notice these symptoms start to subside slowly after the wisdom teeth removal. It could take several months to years before you fully recover. Depending on the extent of the misalignment, you may need braces.

Check Out Our Dental Implant Center

Whether you’re looking for wisdom teeth removal services or other dental services, like single, multiple, and full mouth dental implants or full mouth and jaw reconstructions, our team can help! We accept Medicare and most major medical and dental insurances, and our primary office is located in Frisco, TX, but we serve surrounding areas like McKinney, TX.

Schedule your consultation today by giving us at NextGen OMS a call at 817-893-2662.