Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. Due to limited space, wisdom teeth often grow misaligned or become impacted – a condition where the tooth remains partially or fully embedded in the jawbone. When wisdom teeth impacted against the cheek, it can cause significant discomfort and potential complications. Let’s delve into this condition to be proactive in your oral health care!
Overview of wisdom teeth impacted against the cheek
Causes:
- Lack of space in the jaw: This is the most common reason why wisdom teeth cannot erupt straight.
- Abnormal growth angle: Genetics or other factors can cause wisdom teeth to grow at an angle towards the cheek.
Genetics or other factors can cause wisdom teeth to grow in toward the cheek
- Gum tissue covering: Thick gum tissue covering part or all of the wisdom tooth can make it difficult for the tooth to erupt.
Symptoms:
- Pain and swelling: A dull, persistent ache in the wisdom tooth area and red, swollen gums are signs of impacted wisdom teeth.
- Cheek swelling and discomfort when chewing: The wisdom tooth poking into the cheek causes friction,obstruction, and may even lead to sores and bleeding.
- Bad breath: Difficulty cleaning around the misaligned wisdom tooth creates an environment for bacteria to accumulate, leading to pericoronitis (inflammation around the wisdom tooth).
Potential Complications of Misaligned Wisdom Teeth
- Gingivitis and pericoronitis: Inflammation is the most common complication, affecting quality of life due to recurrent pain.
- Impact on adjacent teeth: Misaligned wisdom teeth can put pressure on the second molars, potentially leading to tooth decay and loosening of the adjacent tooth.
- Formation of cysts or jaw tumors: If left untreated, misaligned wisdom teeth can lead to serious complications requiring surgical intervention.
- Other complications: Infection can spread to surrounding areas, and in rare cases, nerve damage can cause numbness or loss of sensation.
Infection can spread to nearby areas, and more rarely, nerve damage can occur, causing numbness and loss of sensation
Treatment Options for Misaligned Wisdom Teeth
- Regular monitoring: If the wisdom tooth is not causing symptoms, the dentist may recommend monitoring its progress.
- Wisdom tooth extraction: This is a common solution when misaligned wisdom teeth cause pain, recurrent infections, or if the dentist identifies potential complications.
- Surgical wisdom tooth extraction: An oral surgeon will perform this procedure in cases of complex misalignment or when the tooth is deeply impacted in the jawbone.
Post-Extraction Care
To minimize discomfort and promote healing, you should:
- Rest and apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
- Eat soft, liquid, and easy-to-swallow foods.
- Gently clean your teeth and avoid disturbing the extraction site.
- Take medications as prescribed by your doctor.
- Attend follow-up appointments.
Prevention of Misaligned Wisdom Teeth
- Regular dental checkups: Biannual dental exams help detect misaligned wisdom teeth early, allowing your dentist to recommend appropriate treatment.
- Thorough oral hygiene: This helps prevent infection and reduces the risk of complications from misaligned wisdom teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About wisdom teeth impacted against the cheek
Are wisdom teeth growing sideways into the cheek dangerous?
Yes, they can be. Initially, they may only cause pain and gingivitis, but if left untreated, more serious complications can arise, such as severe infection, cysts/jaw tumors, and damage to adjacent teeth.
What are the symptoms of wisdom teeth impacted against the cheek?
Signs to look out for include:
- A dull ache and swelling in the back of the gums.
- Swelling in the cheek, difficulty chewing, and discomfort.
- Visible or partially erupted misaligned tooth.
- Bad breath and bleeding gums.
Do misaligned wisdom teeth need to be extracted?
Not all misaligned wisdom teeth require extraction. Your dentist will assess your specific situation through examination and X-rays. If the tooth is causing discomfort or potential complications, extraction may be recommended to resolve the issue definitively.
Is wisdom tooth extraction painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring you don’t feel pain during the extraction. After the anesthesia wears off, there may be mild pain, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
How should I care for my mouth after wisdom tooth extraction?
It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions for a smooth recovery:
- Bite down on gauze for 30 minutes after extraction.
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Eat soft, cold foods for the first few days, avoiding hot, hard, and spicy foods.
- Gently clean your teethand rinse with salt water as directed.
- Take medications and attend follow-up appointments.
Scientific Evidence on Misaligned Wisdom Teeth
- Study: According to the American Dental Association (ADA), 17% of wisdom teeth grow misaligned. This percentage may be higher in certain populations.
- Study: A 2019 study published in the International Journal of Dentistry (IJD) found that 78% of patients with misaligned wisdom teeth experienced at least one complication, including…
- Study: A 2020 meta-analysis of 12 clinical studies found that extracting misaligned wisdom teeth effectively improved pain, inflammation, and quality of life.
- Guidelines: The ADA provides detailed guidelines on post-extraction care.
Don’t neglect misaligned wisdom teeth impacted against the cheek. Seek dental care as soon as possible! Timely treatment can help you avoid unwanted complications and protect your overall oral health.
References:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/wisdom-tooth-removal/
https://www.cincoranchfamilydentistry.com/how-is-wisdom-tooth-cutting-cheek-tissues-a-problem/
https://www.jacksonavedental.com/post/hole-in-cheek-from-wisdom-tooth
Kiểm Duyệt Nội Dung
More than 10 years of marketing communications experience in the medical and health field.
Successfully deployed marketing communication activities, content development and social networking channels for hospital partners, clinics, doctors and medical professionals across the country.
More than 6 years of experience in organizing and producing leading prestigious medical programs in Vietnam, in collaboration with Ho Chi Minh City Television (HTV). Typical programs include Nhật Ký Blouse Trắng, Bác Sĩ Nói Gì, Alo Bác Sĩ Nghe, Nhật Ký Hạnh Phúc, Vui Khỏe Cùng Con, Bác Sỹ Mẹ, v.v.
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