Wisdom tooth extractions are so common they almost seem to be a rite of passage for young adults. While it is only necessary to pull a wisdom tooth under specific situations, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons states that over 50% of individuals will have at least one wisdom tooth extracted from the ages of 16 to 24.

Here are some of the complications that can result from a wisdom tooth erupting improperly:

• Impacted wisdom tooth. An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when there is not enough space in the dental arch for the tooth to erupt properly. This can increase the risk of tooth decay and other complications since bacteria and food particles can become lodged between the wisdom tooth and gums. This can eventually lead to a condition known as pericoronitis, which is a chronic infection around the tissues of impacted teeth. This can result in periodontal disease and periodontitis, which can eventually lead to tooth loss.
• Dental crowding. When there is not enough space in the arch for teeth to come in, they can force other teeth out of alignment. The result is often crowded, crooked, and overlapping teeth. The erupting wisdom tooth can also damage neighboring teeth. Dental crowding, as previously mentioned, can cause difficulty performing basic oral hygiene functions such as brushing and flossing.
• Oral cysts. Prior to teeth coming in, they form in a sac inside the jawbone. If the wisdom tooth is unable to erupt, this sac can become inundated with bacteria, which can lead to the formation of an oral cyst. Oral cysts can damage hard and soft tissues and – in rare instances – can lead to non-cancerous tumors that require surgical removal.

The best way to avoid complications with an erupting wisdom tooth is to consult with your dentist. Call Polaris Dental for a consultation today!