Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Tooth Decay?

Wisdom teeth, the late bloomers in the back of your mouth, often pose significant dental challenges. Many wonder if these teeth are particularly susceptible to decay and what impact they could have on overall dental health. Let’s read through this guide to learn more about wisdom tooth decay problems and how they are manageable.

Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Tooth Decay?

Yes, wisdom teeth can contribute to tooth decay according to several factors related to their position and nature:

• They are tough to clean properly since they are at the back of the mouth, which leads to plaque buildup and decay.
• They sometimes only partially emerge from the gums. This creates a flap of gum tissue, which traps food and bacteria, causing decay and potentially affecting adjacent teeth.
• Wisdom teeth are able to push other teeth out of alignment and complicate oral hygiene. It increases the risk of decay in surrounding teeth.

Is it Common for Wisdom Teeth to Decay?

The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (BAOMS) indicates that about 25-30% of patients seen with wisdom tooth problems have tooth decay in these teeth. This can occur either in the wisdom teeth themselves or the teeth immediately next to them.

Based on available data, wisdom teeth problems result in:

• Gum infection (Pericoronitis) affects 50-60% of patients.
• Tooth decay in approximately 25-30% of patients.
• Gum disease impacts around 5-10% of patients.
• Cyst formation occurs in less than 1% of cases.

Symptoms and Causes of Tooth Decay Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom tooth decay problems include a range of symptoms. Some of the common symptoms indicate:

• Pain and discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks since decay leads to cavities or infects the dental pulp inside the tooth.
• Heightened sensitivity as the enamel wears away due to decay, exposing the underlying dentin.
• Tenderness in the gums and difficulty in opening the mouth.
• Visible holes in the tooth if the decay has led to the formation of cavities.
• Persistent bad taste or bad breath due to the present bacteria.
• Increased risk of decay because of the trap of food and bacteria in the openings.
• Tooth decay acceleration due to high sugar and starch intake which forms plaque and tartar.

Should Decayed Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?

Yes, decayed wisdom teeth should often be removed, especially if they cause pain or infection or negatively impact other teeth. The decision depends on the severity of the decay, the potential for future problems, and the overall health of the surrounding teeth and gums. Contact us at 623-388-5888 to book your appointment for wisdom tooth extraction in Arizona.

Treatment Options for Wisdom Tooth Decay

Treatment options for wisdom teeth decay problems differ based on the severity of the decay and its impact on surrounding teeth and gums. Here are some common approaches:

1. Filling: Like treating cavities, if the decay is not extensive, the dentist can clean out the decay and choose a dental filling procedure.
2. Root Canal: In cases where decay has reached the pulp, a root canal may be necessary to prevent further infection.
3. Extraction: The most definitive treatment for severely decayed wisdom teeth is extraction. It is especially performed if the tooth is impacted or causing other dental issues like crowding or infection.
4. Antibiotics: If there is an infection associated with the decay, such as an abscess, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection before further treatments.
5. Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using antiseptic mouthwash, is crucial to reduce the risk of decay worsening or spreading.

Effects of Decaying Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth decay problems can lead to several dental health issues if left untreated, such as:

• Infections in the wisdom tooth and the surrounding gum tissues and even to other areas of the oral cavity.
• The decay can advance and cause further tooth loss or extensive dental treatments like fillings or crowns.
• The formation of cysts or tumors can cause significant damage to the jawbone and require surgical intervention.
• Chronic oral infections, including those caused by wisdom teeth decay problems, can lead to a variety of conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Resolve Your Wisdom Teeth Decay Problems in Arizona

Desert Lake Family Dentistry offers expert care for wisdom teeth problems, including decay. Our professional team can provide effective treatment options tailored to your needs. Don’t wait for the pain to worsen and contact us to learn more about the effects of decay and book your appointment.

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth are subject to decay because of their position, which makes them challenging to clean effectively. Early detection of wisdom teeth decay problems and symptoms like pain, sensitivity, and visible cavities is key to timely treatment, which often involves extraction to avoid more severe complications. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring wisdom teeth health and addressing potential issues early.

FAQ

Do wisdom teeth decay faster?

Yes, wisdom teeth are prone to decay faster because of their position, which makes them more difficult to clean thoroughly.

Are wisdom teeth more prone to tooth decay?

Wisdom teeth are indeed more prone to decay because they are harder to reach and clean effectively, which leads to greater plaque accumulation.

How do you know you have wisdom tooth decay?

Signs of wisdom tooth decay include pain, sensitivity, visible holes in the tooth, and sometimes swelling or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.