The Dangers of Ignoring a Broken Wisdom Tooth

Your wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to emerge. They usually show up between the ages of 17 and 25.

Often, these latecomers to the oral party cause more problems than they’re worth. A common issue is a broken wisdom tooth, which can lead to severe pain and dental complications.

We’ll explore why ignoring this dental concern is not an option. So, read further!

Infection and Inflammation

Wisdom teeth are the last molars to emerge, which means that there is often little space left for them in your mouth. This can make it difficult for them to fully erupt and be able to be properly cleaned. As a result, food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped around the tooth, leading to wisdom tooth infection and inflammation.

This can manifest as swelling, redness, and pain in the affected area. If left untreated, it can spread to other areas of your mouth and even cause damage to adjacent teeth. Any licensed dentist servicing emergency dentistry in Tarrytown, NY, or any other location will tell you that an infected wisdom tooth is not something to take lightly. It requires immediate treatment to prevent further complications.

Pain and Discomfort

Broken wisdom teeth can also cause significant pain and discomfort. This is because the tooth may not have enough room to fully emerge, causing it to push against other teeth and gums. This pressure and friction can result in soreness, tenderness, and even difficulty opening your mouth.

In some cases, a broken wisdom tooth may even become impacted, meaning that it is unable to fully emerge from the gums. Wisdom tooth pain can cause discomfort as well as increase the risk of infection and inflammation.

Dental Complications

Ignoring a broken wisdom tooth can also lead to dental complications in the long run. As mentioned before, an untreated infection can spread to other areas of your mouth and cause damage to adjacent teeth. It can even result in gum disease and tooth loss.

Additionally, a broken wisdom tooth can also cause alignment issues. If it is pushing against other teeth, it can disrupt the natural positioning of your teeth and lead to crowding or shifting. This can make it harder to properly clean your teeth and increase the risk of further dental problems.

Bone Loss

The pressure and inflammation caused by the impacted or misaligned tooth can damage the surrounding bone tissue, leading to bone loss in the jaw. This not only weakens the foundation of your teeth but can also affect your overall facial structure and appearance.

Bone loss in the jaw can result in changes to your bite and even cause difficulty in chewing and speaking. It is important to address a broken wisdom tooth as soon as possible to avoid these potential long-term consequences.

Never Ignore a Broken Wisdom Tooth

A broken wisdom tooth should never be ignored. It can lead to a range of dental issues, including infection, pain, and potential complications such as bone loss.

Seeking prompt treatment from a dentist is crucial to maintaining good oral health and preventing long-term consequences. So if you are experiencing any discomfort or notice any signs of a broken wisdom tooth, don’t delay in making an appointment with your dentist.

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