Wisdom teeth are the last new teeth that will enter your mouth. Unfortunately, most patients have some form of complication resulting from their wisdom teeth. Did you know that your wisdom teeth can even impact your overall health? Here’s what you need to be aware of regarding your wisdom teeth.
The Basics
Typically, your wisdom teeth will come in between the ages of 17 and 25. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), as many as 90% of patients have an impacted wisdom tooth. An impacted tooth is unable to properly grow through your gums because of a lack of space.
Oral Health Implications
An impacted wisdom tooth is something that you should consult with our dentist about. We can determine the position of your wisdom teeth with a panoramic x-ray or cone beam scan. Impacted teeth can cause infection and damage to surrounding teeth and bone. They can even cause you to lose the surrounding teeth if the issue is not resolved. It is extremely important these issues are addressed early on.
Your wisdom teeth are also hard to clean in the back of your mouth. An wisdom tooth not receiving the proper care can be a breeding ground for bacteria leading to infection
and gum disease.
Your Overall Health
An infection of your wisdom teeth can lead to oral diseases, but it can also lead to further, more serious complications as well. The oral bacteria that gets into your
bloodstream can lead to heart, kidney, and other organ infections.
The Importance of Examinations
You might not notice any pain or discomfort around your wisdom teeth, but that does not
necessarily mean they are healthy. Even wisdom teeth that fit properly can be the target of a future infection or tooth decay. It is essential to keep up with regular examinations so that our trained, experienced team can take a close look at your wisdom teeth.
Our Gulfport MS dentist can help assess your wisdom teeth and whether they will need to be removed. Wisdom teeth can have a significant impact on your oral health and your overall health. For more questions about wisdom teeth or to schedule your examination, please contact Pure Smiles Dental of Gulfport.
