Wisdom Teeth

What does impaction mean?

When there isn’t enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to emerge properly, they may become impacted, meaning they cannot fully break through the gum line. This makes them difficult to keep clean and can affect the health of the adjacent teeth, gums, and bone.

Wisdom teeth should be evaluated and considered for removal before their root structures are fully formed. This timing varies widely, it can be as early as 12 and in some people not until the early 20’s. The healing process and complication rate worsens after the age of 25. Treating complications of wisdom teeth removal is more challenging and less predictable in patients over 25 years old compared to patients in their teens.

Unless you have an active problem when you see the oral surgeon, the reason for removal is primarily to prevent long-term damage to your teeth, gums and jaw bone. If you have impacted wisdom teeth and you are no longer in your teens or early 20’s, then it’s beneficial to have a consultation with an Oral Surgeon to discuss the risk and benefits of their removal. Depending on your age and if your wisdom teeth are not causing issues, regular monitoring by your family dentist may be recommended.

While wisdom teeth served a purpose in our evolutionary past, they often cause more harm than good in the modern mouth. If you’re experiencing pain or other symptoms related to your wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a dental professional.

Typical Problems Associated with Wisdom Teeth

Crowding

Wisdom teeth can cause crowding or shifting of neighbouring teeth as they attempt to erupt.

Infection

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create an opening for bacteria to enter, leading to localized gum infection (also known as pericoronitis) , swelling, pain, and difficulty chewing.

Cysts

In rare cases, fluid-filled cysts may form around impacted wisdom teeth, damaging the surrounding teeth, gums, and bone.

Damage to Adjacent Teeth

If there is insufficient space to maintain oral hygiene between a wisdom tooth and the molar in front of it (the second molar), then the health of the second molar can be compromised, leading to cavities, gum and bone loss, and ultimately loss of the second molar.