Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth at the back of the mouth. These teeth typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25, although the timing can vary. While many people get their wisdom teeth without complications, others may experience issues with how these teeth emerge. One common problem is when wisdom teeth grow sideways. This can cause discomfort, pain, and other dental issues. But why does this happen? In this article, we will explore the reasons why wisdom teeth grow sideways, the potential problems they can cause, and how they can be managed.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth Growth
Before diving into why wisdom teeth grow sideways, it’s essential to understand their role in your mouth. Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars and are the last teeth to develop in most individuals. In ancient human populations, wisdom teeth played an important role in chewing fibrous plant material. However, over time, human jaws have become smaller, making space for these teeth limited.
Wisdom teeth generally emerge when a person reaches their late teens or early twenties. In some cases, wisdom teeth may not fully emerge, causing them to remain trapped beneath the gumline or grow at an angle. When they grow sideways, they are often referred to as “impacted” wisdom teeth.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Grow Sideways?
There are several factors that can contribute to wisdom teeth growing sideways. Understanding these reasons can help you better manage the potential problems associated with impacted teeth.
1. Lack of Space in the Mouth
One of the main reasons why wisdom teeth grow sideways is a lack of space in the jaw. As human jaws have evolved over time, they have become smaller. For many people, there simply isn’t enough room for the third molars to emerge properly. When the mouth doesn’t have enough space for wisdom teeth to grow upright, they may emerge at an angle, pushing against neighboring teeth or the jawbone.
If there is not enough room for the wisdom tooth to break through the gums, it may remain partially or fully impacted. The pressure from the tooth trying to emerge can cause it to grow sideways in an attempt to find space.
2. Genetics and Evolution
Genetics play a significant role in the development of wisdom teeth. Some people may inherit a jaw structure that is too small to accommodate wisdom teeth, while others may have larger jaws with enough room. Evolution has also played a role in how wisdom teeth develop. Our ancestors had larger jaws and more room for their molars, which made it easier for them to emerge. As humans evolved, however, our jaws became smaller, and wisdom teeth no longer had a functional purpose in our modern diet.
Genetic factors can also influence whether or not wisdom teeth develop at all. Some people may not develop wisdom teeth, while others may have one, two, three, or all four wisdom teeth. For those who do develop wisdom teeth, there’s a higher chance that they may become impacted and grow sideways due to the limited space in the mouth.
3. Insufficient Jaw Development
In some cases, the development of the jaw and teeth may not be optimal, which can contribute to wisdom teeth growing sideways. If the jaw doesn’t fully develop during childhood and adolescence, it may not provide enough space for the wisdom teeth to grow properly. This can lead to issues such as crowding, misalignment, or impaction of the wisdom teeth.
A lack of proper jaw development may also be influenced by environmental factors, such as habits during childhood or poor oral health. Some people may have narrow or constricted jaws, which makes it difficult for the wisdom teeth to emerge properly, causing them to grow sideways.
4. Early Loss of Baby Teeth
The timing of when your baby teeth fall out can also affect the eruption of your wisdom teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early or if the space doesn’t fully develop for the adult teeth, the wisdom teeth may try to erupt in a space that’s too small. This can cause the wisdom teeth to grow at an angle or sideways in an attempt to find more space.
For some individuals, this early loss of baby teeth can lead to misalignment of the permanent teeth, which may prevent the wisdom teeth from emerging properly. Overcrowding in the mouth can also occur, making it difficult for the wisdom teeth to grow straight.
Problems Caused by Sideways Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth grow sideways, they can cause several dental issues that may require attention. Here are some of the common problems associated with impacted or sideways-growing wisdom teeth.
1. Pain and Discomfort
Sideways wisdom teeth often cause pain and discomfort. The pressure from the tooth trying to emerge at an angle can irritate the surrounding gums and cause swelling. Additionally, the misalignment of the tooth can put pressure on neighboring teeth, causing pain in the jaw or teeth. This discomfort can worsen when the tooth becomes infected or inflamed.
2. Infection and Gum Disease
Impacted wisdom teeth are at a higher risk of developing infections. When a wisdom tooth grows sideways and is partially covered by gum tissue, it can create a flap of gum tissue that traps food particles and bacteria. This can lead to a condition known as pericoronitis, which is an infection of the gum tissue surrounding the impacted tooth. Pericoronitis can cause swelling, pain, and difficulty opening the mouth.
Additionally, sideways-growing wisdom teeth can be more difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe oral health problems.
3. Damage to Nearby Teeth
Sideways wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the neighboring molars, leading to shifting, misalignment, or even damage to those teeth. Over time, the pressure can cause cavities or gum damage in the adjacent teeth. If the misalignment is severe, it may cause the need for orthodontic treatment or even the removal of surrounding teeth.
4. Cysts or Tumors
In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth that grow sideways can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors around the affected tooth. These cysts can cause damage to the jawbone, surrounding teeth, and nerves. If left untreated, these cysts can lead to more serious complications, including tooth loss or nerve damage. Regular dental checkups are essential to detect any issues with impacted wisdom teeth early.
How to Manage Sideways-Growing Wisdom Teeth
If you have wisdom teeth growing sideways, there are several options for managing the issue and preventing further complications. Here are a few approaches to consider:
1. Regular Dental Checkups
Regular visits to the dentist are essential for monitoring the development of your wisdom teeth. Your dentist can take X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and assess whether they are causing any issues. Early detection can help prevent complications, such as infection or damage to surrounding teeth.
2. Wisdom Teeth Removal
If your wisdom teeth are growing sideways and causing pain or other dental issues, your dentist may recommend removal. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure that can prevent future complications. In some cases, it may be best to remove the teeth before they cause significant damage or infection.
3. Pain Management
If your sideways wisdom teeth are causing discomfort, your dentist may recommend pain management strategies. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation and pain. Warm saltwater rinses may also help soothe irritated gums. However, it’s important to consult with your dentist if you experience persistent pain.
4. Orthodontic Treatment
If your sideways wisdom teeth are causing misalignment in your other teeth, orthodontic treatment may be necessary. Braces or other corrective measures can help realign your teeth and prevent long-term dental issues caused by wisdom teeth.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth growing sideways is a common issue, and it can cause a range of dental problems, from pain and infection to damage to nearby teeth. The primary reasons for this issue include a lack of space in the jaw, genetics, insufficient jaw development, and early loss of baby teeth. While some people may experience no problems with their wisdom teeth, others may need intervention, such as removal or orthodontic treatment, to prevent further complications. Regular dental checkups and early intervention can help manage the issue and ensure your oral health remains intact. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth, be sure to consult your dentist for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan.
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