Understanding the Impact of Wisdom Teeth on Oral Health and Total Wellness

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, gain their name because of the time period they typically develop in the mouth, sometime during late adolescence when we are (supposidly) becoming “wiser” in the ways of the world. While some individuals may experience no issues, for many, these teeth can lead to a range of oral health problems that affect overall wellness. At Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, located in Schererville, Indiana, Dr. Platt and his team specialize in evaluating and managing wisdom teeth to ensure patients maintain optimal oral health and total wellness.

The Connection Between Wisdom Teeth and Oral Health

Wisdom teeth are notorious for causing dental problems due to their tendency to become impacted or grow improperly. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), up to 85% of people will eventually need their wisdom teeth removed due to complications or crowding. When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to emerge, they can become impacted (trapped beneath the gum or bone), leading to issues such as:

Infection and Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth create a space where bacteria can accumulate, leading to painful infections and gum disease.
Tooth Decay: Because wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, they are difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of cavities.
Damage to Nearby Teeth: Crowded wisdom teeth can push against neighboring molars, causing misalignment, damage to adjacent teeth, or even cysts.
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery found that individuals who retained their wisdom teeth past their 30s had a higher incidence of periodontal disease compared to those who had them removed. This is significant because gum disease has been linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes, demonstrating that the health of your wisdom teeth can affect your overall wellness.

The Benefits of Wisdom Tooth Extractions on Oral Health and Total Wellness

Removing problematic wisdom teeth can provide a host of benefits for both oral health and overall wellness:

Reduced Risk of Infection: By removing impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth, patients significantly lower their risk of developing infections that can spread to other areas of the body.
Improved Oral Hygiene: Extractions can make it easier to brush and floss, promoting better oral hygiene and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Prevention of Crowding and Misalignment: Extracting wisdom teeth before they cause significant damage can prevent the shifting of other teeth, saving patients from future orthodontic treatment.
Lower Risk of Systemic Health Issues: Since gum disease and infections in the mouth can contribute to systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, removing wisdom teeth that could harbor infection may help promote overall health.

When Should Wisdom Teeth Be Extracted?

Not all wisdom teeth need to be extracted, and the decision to remove them is made on a case-by-case basis. Dr. Platt and his team carefully evaluate the position, growth, and potential impact of each patient’s wisdom teeth using diagnostic tools like X-rays and comprehensive oral exams.

There are several scenarios when wisdom tooth extraction is recommended:

• Impaction: When wisdom teeth are unable to fully erupt and are trapped under the gum or bone.
• Crowding: If the wisdom teeth are causing or will likely cause overcrowding of the other teeth.
• Infection or Decay: If the wisdom teeth are causing pain, swelling, or have developed cavities due to their location and difficulty in cleaning.
• Cyst Formation: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

However, in some cases, wisdom teeth may be left alone:

• If They Are Healthy: If the wisdom teeth are fully erupted, healthy, and aligned properly, there may be no need for removal.
• Adequate Space: If there is sufficient room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to emerge without causing crowding or misalignment.
• No Complications: Wisdom teeth that do not cause pain, infection, or other complications can sometimes remain in place.

Dr. Platt and his team use these criteria to determine whether a patient’s wisdom teeth should be extracted. Regular monitoring, especially during a patient’s late teens and early 20s, is crucial to making an informed decision.

Wisdom teeth can significantly impact both oral health and overall wellness. While not everyone will need to have their wisdom teeth extracted, those who do can benefit from improved oral hygiene, reduced risk of infections, and prevention of more serious dental complications. At Jay Platt, DDS Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, Dr. Platt and his team are experts in assessing and managing wisdom teeth, ensuring that each patient receives the best possible care for their unique situation.

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort due to your wisdom teeth, or if you’re unsure whether you need them removed, schedule a consultation with Dr. Platt today. Early evaluation can prevent future issues and help you maintain your overall health and well-being.

References:

American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS)
Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, “Long-Term Impacts of Retaining Third Molars on Oral Health,” 2014