Why are your wisdom teeth growing in sideways?

Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, sometimes grow in sideways due to a lack of space in the jaw. The jaw is designed to accommodate a certain number of teeth, and when the wisdom teeth try to emerge, they may not have enough room to grow in a straight position. This overcrowding can cause the wisdom teeth to become impacted, meaning they are unable to fully emerge from the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other dental problems.

Here are some reasons why there might not be enough space for wisdom teeth to grow in straight:

- Jaw size: The size and shape of your jaw may play a role in whether your wisdom teeth grow in straight or sideways. If you have a small jaw, there may not be enough space for all of your wisdom teeth to fit.

- Tooth size: The size of your wisdom teeth may also affect whether they grow in straight. If your wisdom teeth are too large, they may not be able to fit in your jaw without crowding your other teeth.

- Position of other teeth: The position of your other teeth can also affect the growth of your wisdom teeth. If your other teeth are crowded or misaligned, they may push your wisdom teeth out of alignment.

- Genetics: Genetics may also play a role in whether your wisdom teeth grow in sideways. Some people are more likely to have impacted wisdom teeth than others.