List: potential complications of wisdom tooth impaction

and how to address them

Wisdom Teeth illustration details inside the tooth

Wisdom tooth impaction is, not infrequently, an unfortunate potential occurrence of the sprouting of these large and significant latecomer teeth.

In the event of any complication, it is best to be highly vigilant in regards to potential signs and consequent courses of action - in order to best avoid and mitigate scenarios of potential further discomfort.

Following are some of the numerous, most prevalent complications that may occur as a result of one or more impacted teeth: and a step by step guide to carefully addressing them with the greatest ease possible.

Potential impaction complications:

1- Tooth infection

One of the most prevalent occurrences pertaining to wisdom teeth is potential infection.

As the sprouting of the tooth through the gum takes place, there is an avenue for infection to form amongst the tooth top.

Discomfort, swelling and reduced jaw mobility or stiffness may present due to the inflammation initiated by the infection.
Foul breath and an unpleasant mouth taste may additionally occur, alongside painful swallowing and a general feeling of malaise or unwellness.

Wisdom Teeth illustration appears like the teeth feels pain

2- Food getting lodged between teeth

Food may become stuck amongst the wisdom tooth and its neighbouring molar, potentially resulting in cavities in the tooth duo.

3- Ulcers

At times, upper wisdom teeth may tend to protrude in a sideways manner from the gum- in which case formation of an ulcer is a possibility due to cheek abrasion from the tooth.

4- Cysts

Without proper extraction, a fluid holding sac commonly referred to as a “cyst” may begin to develop surrounding the tooth. As quite a prevalent complication, destruction to nearby teeth, bone and gums may result.

5- Resorption cavities

In the case of an impaction, there will be contact between the wisdom tooth and its adjoining molar. Consequently a resorption cavity may present upon rubbing of the molar.

6- Pain/discomfort

Pressure has the potential to build in teeth of close proximity due to the wisdom tooth. This may result in discomfort in itself, alongside pain being a primary symptom of any infection that takes hold.

Steps to address these issues:

Infection treatment:

The initial step your dentist may commence with is a cleaning or sterilisation of the infected tooth area surroundings.

Instruction may be given to frequently rinse with a saltwater gargle, using one teaspoon to a glass of warm water. It is ideal for the water to be warm as tolerated, but not hot.
Disinfectant mouthwashes and painkillers are amongst other over the counter remedies that may be recommended. If necessary, antibiotics may be prescribed by the doctor.

In the case of a lower wisdom tooth being infected, exacerbation may occur if the top wisdom teeth are clenching down onto the gums. In this instance extraction of the upper tooth is a potential resolution.

Illustration describe the little food between teeth cause caries

illustration describes the tooth have pain because of caries

Critical medical aspects to discuss with the dentist:

It is highly beneficial and essential for you to ensure your doctor holds a complete dental and medical history throughout the course of your treatment, in order to formulate the most optimal route possible.

There are certain health manifestations that may interact with or influence surgery, anaesthesia and post surgery management. Blood tests or any further health diagnostics may be requested by the doctor.

Medicines:

Ensure you provide your doctor with a thorough and complete list of all currently taken medications.

This is inclusive of any birth control/contraception, blood thinners (e.g warfarin), and over the counter medications (for instance cough remedies or aspirin.)

Furthermore, make sure they are briefed on any allergies, and both current or former negative reactions to antibiotics or any other medications.

Pregnancy:

If you currently are pregnant, or may potentially be, it is necessary to disclose this to your doctor as it may influence your treatment, in regards to:

Anaesthesia
Pain management options
Medications & antibiotics
If surgery is necessary to delay or not.

Note: it is safe for dental X-ray films to be undertaken as the beam will not locally target the uterus.

Wisdom Teeth illustration details inside it

Bleeding or blood related conditions:

You must alert your dentist if any of the following are occurring:

. Heavy bleeding during injury or after having surgery.

. Have known blood disorders (for instance haemophilia.)

. Are ingesting blood thinners (like aspirin, warfarin or clopidogrel, or any others.)

Conclusion

Ensuring that the above steps are undertaken is hugely essential to optimising your treatment and ensuring that any arising complications may both easily be identified, and dealt with accordingly.

Following this step by step guide will guarantee that your wisdom tooth uprooting is the most pleasant, comfortable and smooth experience possible.

Acknowledgement of Country

We respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people who are the Traditional Owners of the land of Brunswick and the City of Moreland, and pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.