Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth at the back of your mouth. These teeth typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, many face problems such as impaction. An impacted tooth occurs when there is insufficient space in the jaw for the tooth to emerge properly. When wisdom teeth are horizontally impacted, it means they are growing sideways, usually toward the adjacent teeth. This condition can cause discomfort, pain, and potential dental problems.
One common question that arises is whether horizontally impacted wisdom teeth should be removed. In this article, we will explore the reasons why horizontally impacted wisdom teeth may need to be removed, the potential risks of leaving them untreated, and what you can expect during the removal process. We will also look into the factors that can influence the decision of whether or not to remove these teeth.
What Does Horizontally Impacted Mean?
A horizontally impacted wisdom tooth refers to a tooth that is angled in such a way that it grows sideways instead of vertically. This happens when the tooth does not have enough room to break through the gumline properly, causing it to push against the neighboring teeth. It may also be trapped beneath the bone or gum tissue, unable to emerge fully.
Horizontally impacted wisdom teeth can be associated with a number of potential complications, including:
Pain and discomfort: The sideways pressure of the tooth can cause pain in the jaw, gums, or adjacent teeth.
Infection: If the tooth is partially erupted, bacteria can accumulate around the partially exposed area, leading to infection.
Damage to surrounding teeth: The pressure from a horizontally impacted wisdom tooth can damage the neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment or cavities.
Cyst formation: In rare cases, cysts can form around an impacted tooth, causing further complications, including damage to the jawbone.
Why Should Horizontally Impacted Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
While not all impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed, horizontally impacted teeth often require extraction due to the complications they may cause. Here are the main reasons why removal is often recommended:
1. Prevention of Infection
One of the most common reasons for removing horizontally impacted wisdom teeth is to prevent infection. When a wisdom tooth is impacted sideways, part of it may remain beneath the gum line, leaving a flap of tissue over it. This flap can trap food particles, bacteria, and plaque, creating an environment where infection can thrive.
Infections can cause pain, swelling, and even abscess formation. If left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, leading to more serious health problems. Removing the impacted tooth can reduce the risk of infection and prevent further complications.
2. Pain Relief
Pain is another major reason why horizontally impacted wisdom teeth may need to be removed. As the tooth grows sideways, it can exert pressure on the surrounding teeth, gums, and bone, leading to pain in the jaw. The discomfort can range from mild to severe and can interfere with daily activities such as eating, speaking, or even sleeping.
In some cases, the pain may be intermittent, but for others, it can become a chronic problem. Removing the tooth can alleviate the pressure and provide long-term pain relief.
3. Prevention of Tooth Damage
When a wisdom tooth grows horizontally, it can push against the neighboring teeth, causing damage over time. The pressure from the impacted tooth can cause the adjacent tooth to become misaligned, which may result in bite issues or difficulty cleaning the teeth properly.
Additionally, the pressure can cause cavities or decay in the neighboring teeth, as the trapped food and bacteria contribute to tooth damage.
By removing the impacted tooth, you can prevent further damage to your other teeth and maintain proper alignment and oral health.
4. Avoidance of Cyst Formation
In rare cases, a horizontally impacted wisdom tooth can lead to the formation of a cyst. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can develop around the impacted tooth, potentially leading to bone loss, infection, or even damage to the surrounding teeth.
Cysts can also be painful and may require more invasive treatments, such as surgical removal.
By extracting the impacted tooth early, you can reduce the risk of cyst formation and avoid more complex treatment down the line.
5. Preventing Gum Disease
Impacted wisdom teeth can also contribute to gum disease. When the tooth is partially erupted, it can be difficult to clean the area properly, leading to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Over time, this can result in gingivitis or periodontitis, which are stages of gum disease that can cause swelling, bleeding, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
By removing the impacted tooth, you can eliminate a potential source of gum disease and help maintain the health of your gums and teeth.
What Happens If Horizontally Impacted Wisdom Teeth Are Left Untreated?
While some people with impacted wisdom teeth may experience minimal issues, others may face more serious complications if the tooth is left untreated. If horizontally impacted wisdom teeth are not removed, several problems may arise:
Infection: As mentioned earlier, an impacted tooth can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and the need for emergency treatment.
Damage to Adjacent Teeth: The pressure from the impacted tooth can cause your other teeth to shift or become misaligned. In severe cases, the impacted tooth can even cause the neighboring teeth to crack or break.
Cysts and Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts or, in rare cases, tumors. These growths can damage bone and other dental structures, requiring more extensive treatment.
Difficulty Eating or Speaking: The pain and discomfort caused by an impacted wisdom tooth can make it difficult to eat or speak properly. In some cases, the discomfort can become so severe that it affects your quality of life.
How Are Horizontally Impacted Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If your dentist determines that your horizontally impacted wisdom teeth should be removed, they will discuss the best approach to extraction. The process typically involves:
Anesthesia: Before the procedure, you will be given local anesthesia to numb the area around the impacted tooth. In some cases, sedation may be offered to help you relax.
Incision: The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the impacted tooth. Sometimes, a portion of the bone covering the tooth may also need to be removed.
Tooth Removal: The impacted tooth will be carefully extracted, and in some cases, it may be broken into smaller pieces to make removal easier.
Stitches: After the tooth is removed, the incision site will be stitched closed to promote healing.
Recovery: Recovery time varies, but most people can expect some swelling, discomfort, and bleeding for a few days following the procedure. Pain medications and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage any discomfort or prevent infection.
Conclusion
Horizontally impacted wisdom teeth should generally be removed to prevent complications such as infection, pain, damage to surrounding teeth, and the development of cysts or tumors. While some individuals may experience few issues with their impacted teeth, removal is often the best option to maintain long-term oral health and avoid further dental problems.
If you have horizontally impacted wisdom teeth, it’s important to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon who can evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure that your smile stays healthy for years to come.
