If You Don't Remove Impacted Teeth
An untreated impacted tooth can lead to a number of oral health problems, ranging from pain and infection to misalignment and bone damage. Timely consultation with a dental professional is crucial to address this condition effectively and prevent more serious consequences. Regular dental check-ups and early intervention can ensure the maintenance of optimal oral health and overall well-being. If left untreated, an impacted tooth can lead to various dental and oral health issues, including:
Discomfort: Impacted teeth can cause persistent pain and discomfort, especially as they continue to exert pressure on surrounding tissues, nerves, and other teeth.
Infection: Impacted teeth are more difficult to clean properly, which can lead to the accumulation of bacteria and food particles around the impacted tooth. This can result in gum infection (pericoronitis) or more severe infections that affect the jawbone (osteomyelitis).
Cysts and Tumors: In some cases, a sac filled with fluid (cyst) can form around an impacted tooth. If left untreated, the cyst can grow and cause damage to surrounding bone and teeth. In rare instances, a tumor may develop.
Tooth Crowding and Shifting: Impacted teeth can exert pressure on neighboring teeth, causing them to shift out of their proper positions. This can lead to dental misalignment and affect your bite.
Gum Disease: The presence of an impacted tooth can make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene, increasing the risk of gum disease and other dental issues.
Damage to Neighboring Teeth: Impacted teeth can lead to the resorption (dissolving) of adjacent tooth roots or cause damage to nearby teeth due to pressure and movement.
Headaches and Jaw Pain: Impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to headaches and jaw pain, particularly if they are causing dental misalignment or putting pressure on surrounding structures.
Difficulty Eating and Speaking: Depending on the location and severity of the impaction, you may experience difficulty chewing food or speaking clearly.
Sinus Problems: Impacted upper wisdom teeth can sometimes develop roots that push against the sinus cavity, leading to sinus issues and discomfort.
Leaving an impacted tooth untreated can complicate future dental treatments. If you eventually decide to address the impacted tooth, the extraction procedure may become more challenging and have a higher risk of complications.
Depending on the severity and location of the impaction, the dental professional may recommend extraction, typically performed under local or general anesthesia. Early detection and intervention can help prevent potential complications and maintain good oral health in the long run.