The wisdom tooth is usually the last tooth that grows in the mouth, and due to the limited space in the jaw, it may not fit properly or remain crooked and semi-hidden. This condition is known as impacted wisdom teeth. In many people, the lack of space in the jaw causes wisdom teeth to erupt incompletely or grow horizontally or at an angle. This can lead to many problems that will occur if the wisdom teeth are not removed. In the continuation of this article, we will examine this issue from the website of **Dr. Najmeh Tadredaranjad**, as **the best orthodontic specialist in Mashhad**. Problems caused by improper growth of wisdom teeth Improper growth of wisdom teeth leads to various problems, among which the main and most important ones can be mentioned as follows: ### **causing pain and inflammation** One of the most common side effects of not pulling wisdom teeth is constant pain in the back of the mouth. An impacted or partially impacted wisdom tooth causes pressure on the adjacent teeth and surrounding soft tissue. This pressure can cause gingivitis, swelling and severe pain that interferes with daily life. **Read more" The cause of protruding jaw bone after tooth extraction + treatment methods** ### **Inflammation and gum infections (pericoronitis)** When the wisdom tooth comes out incompletely from the gum, parts of it remain under the gum, which creates a suitable environment for the accumulation of bacteria and remaining food particles. This condition leads to inflammation of the gums (pericoronitis), which is accompanied by pain, swelling, and bad breath, and if left untreated, may lead to more widespread infections. ### **Damage to adjacent teeth** The impacted wisdom tooth can put pressure on the second molar and cause damage to the roots or change their position. This pressure may cause decay of the adjacent teeth or sensitivity and pain. Also, over time, it causes crooked teeth and inconsistency in the dental arch, which leads to orthodontic problems. **Read more" What is an impacted tooth and how can it be treated?** ### **creating cysts and tumors** In rare cases, an impacted wisdom tooth can lead to cyst formation around the root. These cysts may gradually grow and cause destruction of the jaw bone and damage to the adjacent structures. If these cysts are not treated in time, they may turn into benign or even malignant tumors that require more extensive treatments. ### **Emergence of health problems and decay** Wisdom teeth, due to their special position and difficulty in cleaning, become places where bacteria and plaque accumulate. This situation increases the possibility of wisdom tooth decay and adjacent teeth. Advanced decay can lead to severe pain, abscesses, and eventually tooth loss. ### **Incidence of digestive problems** Wisdom teeth that do not function properly or are painful may cause incomplete chewing of food. This has a negative effect on food digestion and causes digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating and stomach pain. **Read more" Click on the given link to get to know the reasons why the tooth does not feel numb.** ### **Negative impact on public health** Chronic infections and inflammations caused by impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on the body's immune system and increase the likelihood of chronic and inflammatory diseases. Severe infections can also spread to other parts of the body, including the heart and kidneys, which is dangerous. **Why do some people not pull their wisdom teeth?** There are several reasons why some people refuse to have their wisdom teeth removed: - **Fear of surgery and pain:** Many people are worried about pain and complications after wisdom tooth extraction surgery. ** Absence of symptoms:** Some people do not have any symptoms and think that there is no need to pull teeth. - **Insufficient information:** Lack of information about the potential complications of impacted wisdom teeth causes the treatment to be postponed. - **Treatment costs:** The cost of surgery and follow-up care can be a factor for delaying extraction. ** Read more » What is dental flooring? + Review benefits, procedures, care and costs** **When should you pull wisdom teeth?** Wisdom tooth extraction is recommended when: - An embedded or partially embedded wisdom tooth causes pain, inflammation or infection. - Wisdom teeth can cause damage to adjacent teeth. - The presence of a cyst or tumor around the wisdom tooth. - Wisdom teeth can cause serious abnormalities in the dental arch. - The wisdom tooth cannot be repaired due to severe decay. If these conditions exist, it is necessary to visit a dentist or a maxillofacial surgeon and take the necessary measures. **Important tips after wisdom tooth extraction** Wisdom tooth extraction is usually considered a simple surgery, but requires special care: - **Maintain oral hygiene:** Rinse your mouth with salt water and gently brush your teeth. - **Avoid putting pressure on the surgical site:** Avoid hard foods and chewing on the opposite side. - **Use of prescription drugs:** Use of **antibiotics** and painkillers according to the doctor's order. - **Monitoring the condition of the wound:** In case of severe pain, unusual bleeding or swelling, consult a doctor. #### Final word Although the wisdom tooth is the last tooth to grow in the mouth, it can cause many problems, and the consequences of not pulling it are sometimes very serious and dangerous. Not pulling wisdom teeth in situations where there is improper growth or infection causes pain, inflammation, damage to adjacent teeth, occurrence of cysts and tumors, health problems and even general complications. Therefore, going to the dentist on time and checking the health of the wisdom teeth and performing extractions if needed is a good way to prevent serious problems. Adequate information, accurate advice and treatment follow-up will guarantee oral and dental health and quality of life. ###