Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to “erupt” in your mouth — they usually appear (Tah Dah!) in your late teens or early twenties.
While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others might need to have them removed due to various problems. How do you know if you need a wisdom tooth (or teeth) removed? Here are seven signs that your wisdom tooth may need to come out…
Pain and Discomfort
One of the most noticeable signs that your wisdom teeth should be evaluated by a dentist is pain in the back/side of your mouth. This discomfort might fluctuate, growing more intense as the tooth pushes through the gums or as it impacts other teeth. Prolonged discomfort should be a sign to you — call us up!
Inflammation Around the Gums
The area around your wisdom tooth might become tender and swollen if the tooth is struggling to break through your gums. This condition, known as pericoronitis, occurs when a wisdom tooth partially emerges and creates an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth, leading to infection.
Jaw Stiffness and Swelling
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, or unable to fully emerge, they can cause significant jaw stiffness and swelling in the affected area. This can limit how wide you can open your mouth, making eating and speaking uncomfortable.
Cyst Formation
Wisdom teeth develop in a sac within the jawbone. If this sac fills with fluid, it can form a cyst that can damage the jawbone, teeth, and nerves. Rarely, a tumor, usually noncancerous, can develop. This often requires the removal of the tissue and bone.
Damage to Nearby Teeth
Wisdom teeth can push your other teeth around, causing mouth pain and bite problems. This crowding can lead to difficulties in brushing and flossing, which may result in tooth decay or gum disease.
Sinus Issues
Problems with wisdom teeth can extend beyond your jaw to your sinuses. The growth and position of the teeth can put pressure on your sinuses located right above and behind. This pressure can cause pain and congestion in your sinus cavities, which might require the removal of the teeth to alleviate these symptoms.
Persistent Bad Breath or Taste
An impacted wisdom tooth can create pockets between the tooth and the gums that trap food particles and bacteria, leading to persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. Regular dental hygiene may not be effective if these pockets are deep, indicating the need for dental intervention.
When Should You Pay Us A Visit?
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to consult with your dentist. They will likely recommend an X-ray to take a closer look at the positioning of your wisdom teeth and determine the appropriate action, which might include removal to prevent further complications.
Removing wisdom teeth is a common procedure and can greatly alleviate discomfort. The process typically involves local anesthesia, and in some cases, your dentist may use general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
Remember, each person’s situation is unique, so even if you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s crucial to get a personalized assessment from our office. Taking action early can help maintain your overall oral health and prevent more severe complications in the future.
Keep smiling!