You’ve got a lot on your plate—work, appointments, and keeping up with your own oral health. Among all the things to keep track of, you may have heard about wisdom teeth, especially if you or someone you know is approaching their late teens or early adulthood. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that usually appear during this time. While some people experience no problems when these teeth grow in, others may have teeth that grow in the wrong direction, leading to issues like wisdom teeth horizontally impacted.
But what does it mean when wisdom teeth are horizontally impacted? And why should you be concerned? At Airdrie Oral Surgery, just outside of Calgary, Alberta, we understand the confusion and concern that can arise when dealing with dental issues.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about wisdom teeth horizontally impacted, how these impacted teeth can affect oral health, and what steps you can take to ensure the best care and outcome.
What Are Wisdom Teeth, and Why Do They Get Horizontally Impacted?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last molar teeth located at the very back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth—two upper wisdom teeth and two lower wisdom teeth—but it’s not uncommon for some to have fewer or even none at all. These teeth typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, a time when a child’s dental arch has usually finished developing.
However, sometimes, there isn’t enough space in the human jaw for these new teeth to come in properly. When this happens, the wisdom teeth can become “impacted,” meaning they are stuck under the gum tissue or only partially emerge. Wisdom teeth horizontally impacted occur when the teeth grow sideways instead of in the correct position. This horizontal impaction can push against the adjacent teeth, leading to various oral health issues.
Signs and Symptoms: How to Tell if Your Wisdom Teeth Are Horizontally Impacted
So, how can you tell if you or someone you know has wisdom teeth horizontally impacted? It’s important to watch for signs and symptoms that might indicate a problem. Even without complaints, an impacted tooth can still cause significant oral health issues.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Swelling and Redness: Swelling or redness at the back of the mouth could indicate that wisdom teeth horizontally impacted are trying to erupt but are stuck beneath the gums.
- Pain and Swelling: Pain or swelling in the back of the mouth or jaw, which may be constant or occur intermittently, especially during chewing or talking, is a common sign of impaction.
- Difficulty Opening the Mouth: Trouble fully opening the mouth can signal that wisdom teeth horizontally impacted are causing pressure or inflammation in the jaw.
- Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Impacted teeth can create pockets where food and bacteria get trapped under the gums, leading to bad breath or a bad taste.
- Jaw Pain and Earaches: Pain from wisdom teeth horizontally impacted may radiate to the ears, causing jaw discomfort, frequent headaches, or earaches.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule a dental check-up. Early detection can help prevent more serious complications down the road.
Why Wisdom Teeth Horizontally Impacted Are a Concern
You might be wondering, “Why are wisdom teeth horizontally impacted such a big deal?” The problem with these teeth growing sideways is that they can push against the nearby teeth. This pressure can lead to several issues:
Damage to Other Teeth: When wisdom teeth horizontally impacted push against other molars, they can cause those molar teeth to shift or become damaged. This can lead to misalignment of the dental arch, which might require orthodontic treatment to correct.
Increased Risk of Infections: Wisdom teeth horizontally impacted can trap food particles and bacteria under the gum line.This can lead to infections like pericoronitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth. In severe cases, infections can spread to other parts of the mouth or even the bloodstream, posing a serious health risk.
Cysts and Jaw Problems: In rare cases, wisdom teeth horizontally impacted can cause cysts to form in the jaw bone. These cysts can damage the jawbone and nearby teeth. In some cases, tumors can develop, which may require more complex oral and maxillofacial surgery to resolve.
Crowding of Teeth: If you have undergone orthodontic treatment, such as braces, wisdom teeth horizontally impacted can reverse some of that hard-earned progress by pushing other teeth out of alignment.
How Are Horizontally Impacted Wisdom Teeth Diagnosed?
Diagnosing wisdom teeth horizontally impacted typically involves a dental exam and X-rays. During the exam, the dental professional will check for swelling, redness, or other signs that the wisdom teeth aren’t erupting properly. X-rays offer a clear view of what’s happening beneath the gum line, revealing the position of the wisdom teeth horizontally impacted and how they may be affecting the surrounding teeth and bone.
At Airdrie Oral Surgery, we use state-of-the-art technology to ensure accurate diagnosis and provide the best possible care. The earlier an impacted tooth is identified, the better we can manage potential issues and prevent complications.
Treatment Options: What to Do About Wisdom Teeth Horizontally Impacted
Once it’s been determined that your wisdom teeth are horizontally impacted, your dentist will discuss the best treatment options. The goal is to prevent pain, infection, and damage to other teeth.
Observation: In some cases, if the impacted teeth aren’t causing any immediate problems, the dental professional might recommend a “wait and see” approach. This means keeping an eye on the teeth and monitoring for any changes. Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure the impacted teeth aren’t causing issues over time.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: The most common treatment for horizontally impacted wisdom teeth is wisdom teeth removal, which means extracting the teeth. While the idea of dental surgery might seem daunting, it’s a routine procedure performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case.
Why Surgical Removal Is Often Necessary:
- Prevents Future Problems: Removing impacted wisdom teeth can prevent potential future issues like infections, cysts, and damage to other teeth.
- Relieves Pain and Swelling: Surgical removal can relieve jaw pain and pressure caused by the impacted teeth, improving your child’s overall comfort and oral health.
What to Expect During Wisdom Teeth Removal:
If wisdom teeth removal is necessary, here’s what you can typically expect. The oral surgeon will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, but for more complex cases, general anesthesia may be recommended.
The surgeon will carefully remove the impacted wisdom teeth, and after a short recovery period in the office, you’ll be able to take your child home.
Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After the surgical removal, it’s important to follow the oral surgeon’s post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some key tips to help you recover comfortably:
Rest and Recovery: Make sure you take it easy for the first few days after surgery. Activities like running or playing sports should be avoided to prevent complications.
Pain Management: Your surgeon will likely prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage discomfort. Make sure you take these as directed to stay ahead of the pain.
Ice Packs for Swelling: Swelling is normal after a wisdom tooth extraction. Applying ice packs to the outside of the face can help reduce swelling and make you more comfortable.
Soft Foods and Hydration: For the first few days, you should stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the surgical site. Keeping you hydrated with plenty of water is also essential.
Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial after an extraction to prevent infections. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to clean your mouth, such as gently rinsing with salt water and avoiding the surgical site when brushing. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help prevent infections.
Watch for Warning Signs: While complications are rare, it’s essential to watch for signs of infection, such as excessive swelling, persistent pain, fever, or a foul taste in the mouth. If any of these occur, contact your surgeon right away.
Preventing Future Dental Issues: The Importance of Regular Check-Ups
Once your wisdom teeth have been managed, it’s important to continue with regular dental check-ups to ensure their overall oral health. Wisdom teeth aren’t the only dental challenge you face, so maintaining a consistent dental care routine is key.
Why Regular Check-Ups Matter:
- Early Detection of Issues: Regular visits allow the dentist to catch any potential problems early, whether it’s tooth decay, gum inflammation, or other dental concerns.
- Professional Cleanings: Even with good brushing and flossing habits, professional cleanings are necessary to remove plaque and tartar that can build up over time.
- Monitoring Oral Development: As your child grows, their mouth will continue to change. Regular check-ups help monitor these changes and ensure everything is developing as it should.
How to Support You Through the Wisdom Teeth Journey
Supporting someone through their wisdom teeth journey involves more than just scheduling appointments—it’s about offering comfort, answering questions, and making the experience as stress-free as possible.
Be Informed:
The more you understand the process, the better you can help explain what’s happening and why. Knowledge can help ease fear and anxiety, making the experience less overwhelming.
Stay Positive:
Your attitude plays a significant role in how the experience is perceived. Staying calm and positive can help reduce stress and make the situation feel more manageable.
Prepare Ahead:
Have a recovery plan in place. Stock up on soft foods, pain relievers, and ice packs. Ensure you have any prescribed medications on hand before the day of the extraction for a smooth and worry-free recovery.
Be Patient:
Recovery can be uncomfortable, and feelings of frustration may arise. Be patient and supportive, reminding them that this discomfort is temporary and will lead to better oral health.
Conclusion: Taking the Next Step with Airdrie Oral Surgery
Wisdom teeth horizontally impacted might sound daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, navigating this dental milestone can be much easier. At Airdrie Oral Surgery just outside of Calgary, Alberta, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. From initial diagnosis to treatment options and recovery, our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care for your oral health.
If you suspect that you might have impacted wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can book an appointment online or call our office at (403) 948-9598. Let’s work together to keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come!
FAQs About Horizontally Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Here are some common questions about horizontally impacted wisdom teeth:
1. At what age should I start worrying about wisdom teeth?
While wisdom teeth typically begin to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, it’s a good idea to start monitoring dental development earlier. Regular check-ups with your dentist can help identify any potential issues before they cause problems.
2. How can I tell if I need my wisdom teeth removed?
The best way to determine if wisdom teeth need to be removed is to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon. They will use X-rays and an exam to assess the position and health of the wisdom teeth and recommend the best course of action.
3. What can happen if impacted wisdom teeth are not removed?
If impacted wisdom teeth are not removed, they can cause various issues such as pain, infections, damage to surrounding teeth, and in rare cases, the development of cysts or tumors. Early intervention helps prevent these complications.
4. Is the extraction procedure safe?
Yes, wisdom tooth extraction is a routine and generally safe procedure. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly trained to perform these extractions. The risks are minimal, and the benefits of removing impacted teeth far outweigh potential complications.
5. How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth extraction?
Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the extraction, but most people recover within a few days to a week. It’s important to avoid strenuous activities for a few days and follow all post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon for a smooth recovery.