Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in the mouth and usually appear in the late teenage years or early twenties. However, many people do not have enough room in their mouth to accommodate these teeth, which can cause problems as they try to emerge. This condition is known as impaction. When wisdom teeth are impacted, they can cause various problems, and failure to address these issues can lead to severe consequences.
One consequence of not treating impacted wisdom teeth is pain and discomfort. When wisdom teeth become impacted, they can push against the other teeth, causing pain and swelling in the gums. They can also cause infections in the gums and jaw, which can be extremely painful and lead to further complications.
Another consequence of not treating impacted wisdom teeth is damage to surrounding teeth. If wisdom teeth are not adequately treated, they can push against and damage the teeth next to them, causing crooked teeth and misalignment in the bite. This can lead to problems with eating and speaking and long-term oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease.
In addition to causing pain and damaging surrounding teeth, impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to cysts or tumors in the mouth. These growths can cause severe damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth and may require extensive treatment to remove.
Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause difficulty in maintaining good oral hygiene. When wisdom teeth are not adequately treated, they can be hard to clean, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Finally, failing to treat impacted wisdom teeth can result in more severe and long-term health problems. These can include infections that spread beyond the mouth, leading to abscesses or other serious health issues.
In conclusion, not treating impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various problems, including pain, damage to surrounding teeth, developing cysts or tumors, difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene, and long-term health problems. It is important to address these issues as soon as possible to prevent further complications. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to wisdom teeth or have concerns about oral health, it is important to speak with a dental professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.