When to Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal: Signs and Symptoms

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of your mouth, typically in early adulthood. For many people, these teeth come in without any issues. For others, they bring a range of dental problems that may lead to their removal. Here is more information about when wisdom teeth removal may be necessary:

Partially-emerged Teeth

When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges from the gum line, it can cause specific problems. Sometimes, a flap of gum tissue covers part of the tooth’s crown. This flap can make it harder to clean the area properly with a toothbrush and floss. Food and bacteria can get trapped beneath the gum, leading to inflammation and infection.

Noticeable symptoms may accompany this condition. You might experience:

• Swelling and redness in the gums around the affected tooth
• Pain that radiates to the jaw and ear
• A bad taste or odor in your mouth
• Difficulty opening your mouth completely

These symptoms indicate that the area has become compromised. Without proper cleaning and attention, the infection might worsen and spread.

Impacted Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not have enough room to emerge properly or develop normally. They remain trapped beneath the gum line or within the jawbone. A tooth may be fully impacted, meaning it never breaks through the gums, or partially impacted, where some of the tooth is visible.

Impacted teeth can grow at odd angles, sometimes sideways, pressing against neighboring molars. This pressure can damage the nearby teeth, roots, and jawbone. Sometimes, cysts or tumors may develop around impacted teeth, which can harm the jawbone and nerves.

While some impacted teeth don’t cause symptoms, others may lead to pain and alignment problems that worsen over time. A dental X-ray helps to see where these teeth are and understand how they might affect your oral health. Detecting and removing impacted teeth early can prevent complications and help maintain good oral health.

Persistent Pain

One sign that your wisdom teeth need attention is persistent pain. This discomfort may not be constant; it can come and go. The pain might feel like a dull ache in the back of your jaw or a sharp sensation around the tooth. Sometimes, the pain occurs because the tooth presses against a nerve or other teeth as it tries to emerge. 

In other cases, the pain results from repeated infections or chronic inflammation of the gum tissue. You might also experience headaches or jaw soreness due to pressure from an emerging or impacted wisdom tooth. If you notice ongoing discomfort in that area of your mouth, it’s a clear sign to see a professional.

Dental Crowding

When wisdom teeth grow in a jaw that lacks enough space, they may push the existing teeth out of alignment. This pressure can undo years of work or create new alignment problems. The force exerted by incoming wisdom teeth sometimes causes the other teeth to shift, overlap, or become crooked. This is known as dental crowding.

Schedule Wisdom Teeth Removal

Recognizing these signs and symptoms is the first step toward protecting your oral health. If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or changes in your bite, a dental examination can provide clarity on what is happening in your mouth. A dentist can assess the state of your wisdom teeth and their effect on surrounding structures. Contact a dental office today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.

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