Wisdom Teeth and Overcrowding

Your wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to erupt. They start showing up around the ages of 17 to 21 and they are more likely to run into problems when they do since there is a limited amount of space left on the jaw at that point.

Wisdom teeth are the only set of teeth that are not necessary for good oral health. They are relics of evolution, a reminder of a time when humans consumed lots of tough roots and leaves. Wisdom teeth are harder to reach than any other set of teeth, making it more challenging to clean them properly. As a result, wisdom teeth tend to be more vulnerable to tooth decay. Since wisdom teeth are not needed for any specific purpose, dentists typically recommend having them extracted when problems arise.

The relationship between wisdom teeth and other oral issues

Some people do not have any issues when their wisdom teeth begin to erupt. Others find themselves dealing with complications as their last set of teeth try to erupt. Our jaws have gotten smaller over the years, so there is not always enough room left on the jaw by the time wisdom teeth begin to emerge.

The result of not having enough room on the jaw when wisdom teeth erupt can be overcrowding. Teeth might become impacted as the lack of space leaves them unable to grow properly. An impacted tooth can end up being stuck in the gum or jaw. It can erupt at odd angles, growing into adjacent teeth and damaging them.

At times, impacted wisdom teeth do not lead to any issues. Some are unnoticeable unless observed with x-rays. Others end up with impacted wisdom teeth that lead to bleeding gums, swelling, and discomfort. Impacted teeth sometimes lead to the formation of cysts, which can damage the bone structures and roots of surrounding teeth.

Wisdom teeth can also erupt partially. When this occurs, the tooth barely breaks through the gums and it creates a flap which serves as an excellent breeding ground for bacteria. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease developing around the area. People who develop this condition can reduce the risk of decay and infection by carefully cleaning the area when brushing twice a day.

Wisdom teeth and overcrowding

There is some controversy about how big of a role wisdom teeth play when it comes to overcrowding or crooked teeth. Conventional dental knowledge leans towards wisdom teeth playing a role since they push on surrounding teeth, but some studies suggest that they do not exert enough pressure to move other teeth. Most cases of overcrowding or crooked teeth are the result of a natural drifting of the teeth.

Also, a person’s facial structures change as they age, and teeth tend to move forward and closer towards each other with age.

Addressing overcrowding

Regardless of what leads to the poor alignment of a person’s teeth, appliances like braces and clear aligners can be used to straighten teeth.

Are you experiencing wisdom tooth issues?

Contact our Rohnert Park clinic today if you have a problematic wisdom tooth that needs treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://gratondentalgroupca.com/contact-us/ or call Graton Dental Group at (707) 706-2028 for an appointment in our Rohnert Park office.

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Call our Rohnert Park Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.