Wisdom teeth are a common source of discomfort for many people, especially as they emerge in the late teen or early adult years. But for some, these teeth don't come in as expected, leading to various dental issues.
If you’ve been told your wisdom teeth are impacted, or you’re experiencing pain in the back of your mouth, you may wonder why this is happening. Keep reading to discover what causes wisdom teeth to become impacted and why it’s important to address the issue early.
Reasons For Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Jaw Size and Evolution
One of the primary reasons wisdom teeth become impacted is that human jaws have become smaller over time due to evolutionary changes. Our diets have evolved to include softer foods and better cooking methods, so our need for large, robust jaws has decreased. This smaller jaw size often leaves little room for wisdom teeth to emerge properly, causing them to become impacted.
Lack of Space
Another factor leading to impacted wisdom teeth is the simple lack of space in the mouth. Most people have enough room for 28 teeth, but wisdom teeth bring the total to 32. Without adequate space, these molars may not be able to break through the gums, leading to impaction, swelling, or infection.
Abnormal Growth Direction
Sometimes, wisdom teeth grow at odd angles, pushing against neighboring teeth or growing horizontally instead of vertically. This abnormal growth direction can cause pain and even damage adjacent teeth. Oral surgery is often the best solution if your wisdom teeth are impacted by their growth direction.
Delayed Eruption
In some cases, wisdom teeth remain impacted due to delayed eruption, which means they develop more slowly than expected. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as the teeth being positioned too far back in the jaw or being blocked by other teeth.
When wisdom teeth take too long to emerge, they may get stuck beneath the gum line, causing discomfort or infection. Early diagnosis and monitoring can help prevent complications and ensure the teeth are addressed before causing significant issues.
Consult an Oral Surgeon for Impacted Wisdom Teeth in Coral Springs
If you're experiencing discomfort or suspect your wisdom teeth may be impacted, it’s essential to consult with an expert. Our skilled team at Oral Facial Reconstruction and Implant Center can assess your situation and recommend the best course of action for your oral health. Contact us today!
