For many people, wisdom teeth erupt normally, without causing any problems. However, in some cases, the wisdom tooth only breaks halfway through the gum, leaving a significant portion of the tooth inside the gum. This condition is medically referred to as a partially impacted third molar.
It might look like there is nothing to worry about, and a simple wisdom tooth extraction can solve the issue. However, a partially impacted tooth can cause pain and infection. In this blog, we learn about the five major risks associated with having a partially erupted wisdom tooth. So, let’s begin!
What is a Partially Erupted Wisdom Tooth?
A third molar that only comes partway through the gumline means that the remaining part of the tooth is still beneath the gum or bone. It is a common dental issue.
There is a possibility that your wisdom tooth might grow at an angle that presses against the neighboring teeth or remain under the gumline. Besides, a partially emerged wisdom tooth can cause pain and discomfort, leading to more dental complications if not treated effectively.
Symptoms of a Partially Impacted Tooth
A partially emerged wisdom tooth might not cause immediate pain or discomfort. Here are some common symptoms you need to watch out for:
- Pain or Discomfort: Persistent pain at the back of your mouth is a major warning sign. Also, the tenderness might worsen when you brush near the affected area.
- Swollen Gums: Half erupted tooth might cause your gums to swell due to the food and bacterial buildup.
- Bad Breath: Since the area is difficult to clean, bacteria can start growing below the gumline, which leads to bad breath.
- Jaw Stiffness: If there is an infection around your tooth, it might be hard for you to fully open your mouth or move your jaw.
Risks of Having a Wisdom Tooth Partially Out
Here are some of the most common risks associated with this condition:
Infection:
The gum flap might trap food particles and bacteria. This causes swelling and pain. In severe cases, the infection can start spreading to your nearby tissues, making normal functions like chewing or swallowing difficult for you.
Tooth Decay and Cavities:
The area is hard to clean because of a half exposed tooth, making it easy for plaque and bacteria to accumulate. This can lead to cavities and tooth decay in your wisdom tooth or in neighboring teeth.
Gum Disease:
A tooth starting to come out allows bacteria to grow under the gumline. Over time, this bacteria can cause gingivitis, which might progress into periodontitis, affecting your surrounding bone and tissues.
Tooth Misalignment:
When your wisdom tooth does not have enough space to grow, it might start pushing against your nearby teeth. Even though orthodontic crowding from wisdom teeth is a debated topic, impaction can still cause localized pressure and discomfort. The constant pressure can make your teeth shift from their place, leading to bite alignment issues.
Jaw Damage:
In some rare cases, a third molar coming out might develop a cyst. If you don’t treat it effectively, it can start expanding and damage your jawbone, teeth, and nerves. Untreated cystic lesions can expand and resorb bone or adjacent roots.
Final Thoughts
A partially erupted wisdom tooth may not cause problems at first, however, it can lead to oral health complications if you don’t get early treatment. With regular checkups, your dentist can determine if the extraction is necessary or not.
For professional care, you can contact Pearl Dentistry. Our dental experts can help you prevent serious issues and keep your smile healthy. Get in touch with us today to schedule your visit!