Are wisdom teeth more prone to cavities?

It’s very common for people to have a few cavities in their lifetime - you can get them on any part of your teeth, and they can even affect your wisdom teeth. When you notice your one, make sure to contact your dentist north wales. Here is what you may need to know about getting a cavity in your wisdom tooth:

Lots of people get their wisdom teeth extracted as they often cause trouble. They are the last teeth to arrive in the mouth, and they’re usually isn’t enough room for them. They usually arrive when we’re at the ages of 17 to 21 - but people already have 28 other teeth in there! They end up getting stuck in the gum or bone and become impacted. 

A wisdom tooth which is impacted is more likely to develop a cavity. It makes it easier for food bits to get stuck around the tooth and cause decay due to a bacteria build-up. 

Another factor as to why wisdom teeth are more prone to decay is because they are difficult to clean. It can be hard to get to them as they are right at the back of the mouth, so extra care is needed when brushing and flossing. 

What should I do if I have a cavity in my wisdom tooth?

If you notice one, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible. With a normal tooth, they will usually recommend a filling. However, if the cavity is severe then they may suggest root canal treatment to save and restore the tooth. 

But, with a wisdom tooth, more often than not, your dentist will recommend having the tooth extracted. 

Should I keep my wisdom teeth?

If you are thinking about this, the best thing to do is bring up the situation with your dentist. They will most likely recommend you leave the teeth as they are if you are not experiencing issues with them - but will closely monitor them. 

If they haven’t come out your gums properly, then your dentist may suggest removing them to stop them from pushing your other teeth out of line. They will discuss the different options for removal with you and will tell you all about the procedure if you wish. 

If you develop a cavity, you should be reassured that your dentist will choose the best solution to keep your mouth healthy.