Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars at the back of the mouth. They usually come in during the late teens or early twenties. However, not everyone’s wisdom teeth grow properly. Sometimes they come in crooked or at an angle, causing discomfort or other dental problems. If you find that your wisdom teeth are growing crookedly, you might wonder what steps you should take. This article will guide you through understanding crooked wisdom teeth, the potential issues they cause, and the best ways to deal with them.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth at the back of the mouth. These teeth usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, wisdom teeth come in without any problems. However, some people experience issues, especially when their wisdom teeth grow crookedly.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Grow Crooked?
There are a few reasons why wisdom teeth may not grow properly. The main reason is a lack of space in the mouth. Most people’s jaws have grown to their full size by the time wisdom teeth start to come in. There might not be enough room for the wisdom teeth to emerge correctly, leading to crooked growth.
Other factors that can affect the growth of wisdom teeth include genetics, the size of the teeth, and even the angle at which the teeth are coming in. In some cases, wisdom teeth may grow sideways or even remain trapped under the gum tissue (called impacted wisdom teeth).
Problems Caused by Crooked Wisdom Teeth
Crooked wisdom teeth can cause a number of problems. It’s important to recognize these issues so you can address them early on.
Pain and Discomfort
One of the most common issues with crooked wisdom teeth is pain. As the teeth grow at an angle, they may press against other teeth, causing pain or tenderness in the gums. This can make eating, speaking, or even brushing your teeth uncomfortable.
Tooth Infection
When a wisdom tooth grows crookedly, it may be difficult to clean it properly. This can lead to bacteria buildup, which can cause an infection in the surrounding tissues. An infected wisdom tooth can cause swelling, redness, and a bad taste in the mouth. In severe cases, an infection can spread to other parts of the body.
Damage to Nearby Teeth
Crooked wisdom teeth may push against the nearby molars, leading to damage. This pressure can cause the neighboring teeth to shift, potentially leading to misalignment or other dental issues.
Cysts and Tumors
In rare cases, impacted or crooked wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts. These fluid-filled sacs can damage the surrounding bone or even cause tooth loss. Though uncommon, cysts and tumors are serious problems that should be addressed by a dentist.
Gum Disease
Crooked wisdom teeth can make it harder to properly clean your mouth. This can result in gum disease, which can cause swelling, bleeding, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
How to Manage Crooked Wisdom Teeth
If your wisdom teeth are growing crookedly, there are several steps you can take to manage the situation. Here are some of the most common options for dealing with crooked wisdom teeth.
Visit Your Dentist
The first thing you should do if you notice that your wisdom teeth are growing crookedly is to visit your dentist. A dentist will examine your teeth and take X-rays to see the position of the wisdom teeth. Based on the examination, the dentist will recommend the best course of action.
Monitor the Growth
In some cases, crooked wisdom teeth may not cause any problems right away. If the teeth are not causing pain or other issues, your dentist may recommend simply monitoring the growth. You will need regular check-ups to make sure no new problems develop.
Pain Relief
If your crooked wisdom teeth are causing pain, your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the discomfort. They may also suggest warm saltwater rinses or ice packs to reduce swelling and ease pain. In more severe cases, stronger medications may be prescribed.
Consider Removing the Wisdom Teeth
If your wisdom teeth are causing significant problems or are at risk of causing future issues, your dentist may recommend removing them. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure and is usually done by an oral surgeon. The surgery involves removing the wisdom teeth from their sockets, which can help prevent further problems.
When to Remove Crooked Wisdom Teeth
Not all crooked wisdom teeth need to be removed. If the teeth are not causing pain, infection, or damage to nearby teeth, your dentist may suggest leaving them in place. However, if the wisdom teeth are impacted or causing other issues, removal may be necessary. Here are some situations in which your dentist may recommend removal:
Pain: If the crooked wisdom teeth are causing ongoing pain that does not go away with painkillers or other remedies.
Infection: If the teeth are infected or are at risk of becoming infected.
Damage to Other Teeth: If the wisdom teeth are damaging nearby teeth or causing misalignment.
Cysts or Tumors: If cysts or tumors form around the impacted wisdom teeth.
The Wisdom Teeth Removal Procedure
If removal is recommended, it’s important to understand what the procedure entails. Wisdom teeth removal is usually performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the teeth. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used to put you to sleep during the procedure.
After the anesthesia takes effect, the oral surgeon will make small incisions in the gum to access the wisdom teeth. The teeth will be carefully removed, and the incisions will be stitched up. The entire procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
Recovery After Removal
After the removal of wisdom teeth, you will need some time to recover. Most people experience swelling and discomfort after the surgery, but this can be managed with ice packs and pain medication. You may also need to stick to a soft food diet for a few days to avoid irritating the surgical site.
It’s important to follow all post-surgery care instructions from your dentist to ensure a smooth recovery. These instructions may include avoiding certain foods, keeping the surgical site clean, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Preventing Future Issues with Wisdom Teeth
While some people may need to have their wisdom teeth removed, there are steps you can take to prevent future problems.
Regular Dental Check-ups
The best way to manage crooked wisdom teeth is to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can monitor the growth of your wisdom teeth and catch any potential problems early. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to detect issues such as infection, cavities, or misalignment before they become serious.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential for preventing problems with wisdom teeth. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, including the areas around your wisdom teeth. If your wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, your dentist may recommend special cleaning tools such as an interdental brush or a water flosser.
Use a Mouthguard if Needed
If your crooked wisdom teeth are causing misalignment in your other teeth, your dentist may recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth from damage. A mouthguard can help prevent grinding or shifting of your teeth while you sleep.
Conclusion
Crooked wisdom teeth can cause a range of dental problems, including pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth. If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are growing crookedly, the best course of action is to visit your dentist. They can assess the situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment, whether it’s monitoring the growth, managing pain, or removing the teeth. By taking care of your wisdom teeth and maintaining regular dental check-ups, you can prevent future complications and maintain a healthy smile.
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