Impacted wisdom teeth, which are unable to erupt properly through the gums due to obstruction or lack of space, can have significant implications for jaw health. Understanding these impacts is crucial for making informed decisions about treatment. Here’s a comprehensive look at how impacted wisdom teeth affect jaw health and why Wisdom teeth removal Sydney will be necessary.

What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. When these teeth do not have enough space to fully erupt or develop in an abnormal position, they become impacted. This can lead to various complications affecting not only the teeth themselves but also the surrounding jawbone and nearby teeth.

1. Jaw Pain and Tenderness

Impacted wisdom teeth often exert pressure on the surrounding tissues and nerves, leading to persistent jaw pain and tenderness. This discomfort can extend to the ears, temples, and neck, impacting daily activities and overall well-being.

2. Infection and Abscesses

Partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth create pockets where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infections and abscesses. These infections can spread to the surrounding jawbone, causing severe pain, swelling, and even systemic illness if left untreated.

3. Damage to Adjacent Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth can push against neighbouring teeth, causing them to shift position or become damaged. This can lead to crowding, misalignment, and increased susceptibility to decay and gum disease in adjacent teeth. This is when you’d need to opt for cheap Wisdom teeth removal Sydney.

4. Cysts and Tumours

Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to the formation of cysts or tumours within the jawbone. These growths can cause bone destruction, facial deformity, and may require surgical intervention for removal.

5. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

The pressure exerted by impacted wisdom teeth can affect the alignment and function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This can result in TMJ disorders, characterized by pain, clicking or popping noises, and restricted jaw movement.

6. Sinus Issues

Impacted wisdom teeth in the upper jaw can sometimes extend into the sinus cavity, leading to sinus pain, congestion, and infections. This requires careful management to prevent complications.

Treatment Options

1. Monitoring

In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth may be monitored through regular dental check-ups to assess their impact on oral health.

2. Extraction

Extraction is often recommended when impacted wisdom teeth cause pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, or other complications. Oral surgeons perform extractions under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case.

3. Surgical Removal

For deeply impacted wisdom teeth, surgical removal may be necessary. This involves making an incision in the gum tissue and possibly removing a portion of the jawbone to access and extract the tooth.

If you suspect you may have impacted wisdom teeth or are experiencing symptoms such as jaw pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, consult with a dental professional for an evaluation and appropriate treatment plan. They will discuss about the procedure, recovery timeline, Wisdom teeth removal cost Sydney, and answer any other question you may have.