In some people, wisdom teeth cause pain. The eruption of wisdom teeth is one of the factors that contribute to the movement of the anterior teeth, though it is not the main cause. There are reasons to have these teeth extracted. Mesio-angled, or horizontal wisdom teeth, can cause resorption of the adjacent tooth, that is to say, the second molars. If the latter is destroyed or decayed, it must also be extracted. Pericoronitis (inflammation of the tissues surrounding the crown of the tooth) and cellulitis (an infection of the facial soft tissues) are possible complications of wisdom teeth. To learn more, continue reading or contact dentist in Madison AL.
Here are other possible reasons behind wisdom teeth issues:
Nerve injury
* Inferior alveolar nerve: Preoperative radiographs are useful because it allows dentists to evaluate the proximity between the bottom wisdom tooth and the nerve that travels into the bone under the roots of the teeth. The closer the teeth are in proximity, the more risk of damaging the nerve by extracting the tooth.
* Lingual nerve: The lingual nerve causes loss of sensation or a numbness sensation on the same side as the affected nerve. You should know that this is a temporary complication that resolves itself in a few weeks. In rare cases, the loss of feeling is permanent.
Broken tooth
Sometimes the root of the 3rd molar is fragile and breaks. This is more frequent when the tooth has several roots and are bent. Dentists in Madison AL may choose to go get that piece of root or leave it in place, especially if the root fragment is close to the inferior alveolar nerve. A residual root fragment usually causes no complications.
Bone damage
More particularly with teeth, it is possible for the bone to sustain damage. The bone around the 3rd molar can be damaged during extraction procedures. This is not alarming and there is no treatment. The bones heal together by itself. Rarely, there may be a fracture of the jaw. This risk increases with age and is favored by fragile bones and a profoundly impacted tooth.
In short, various complications are possible, but they are still rare. However, you should be informed of all avenues in order to understand the implications of surgery. Contact your local dental clinic for more information.
