Oral Care- How to Know If You Need Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the very last permanent teeth to appear, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. In some people, these teeth erupt without complications. However, there is a possibility that they could only partially erupt or become trapped under your gums or in your jaw, a condition known as impacted wisdom teeth. At least one wisdom tooth remains inside the jaw in about 80 out of 100 young adults, according to the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG).
If you’ve recently made an online search for “how to know if you need your wisdom teeth removed,” you’re not alone. It is not always easy to tell if you really need a wisdom tooth extraction or if you’re dealing with another dental problem. While only your dentist can provide you with a real diagnosis, there are some signs that could indicate wisdom teeth removal is necessary.
How to Know If You Should Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
1. They Have Erupted Sideways
When a tooth erupts, you expect it to come through the gum right side up. However, this isn’t always the case with wisdom teeth. These problematic teeth can sometimes come through the gum at an angle, which typically requires them to be removed. If left alone, these teeth could cause damage to nearby teeth or lead to other oral health complications down the line.
2. You’re Experiencing Pain in the Back of Your Mouth
Oftentimes, one of the first signs a person will experience before having a wisdom tooth removed is pain. Wisdom tooth pain can occur suddenly and stop suddenly or cause constant discomfort until removal. The pain can range from mild to excruciating, along with pain that radiates from the affected tooth down to the jaw and neck. The jaw can also become sore, stiff, and difficult to open.
3. You’re Having Recurring Headaches or Earaches
While recurring headaches or earaches can have various causes, one to consider is wisdom teeth issues. When your jaw cannot accommodate these extra teeth due to a lack of space in the mouth, it can create pain and pressure that radiates to other areas, such as the head and ears. Impacted wisdom teeth are especially known to cause chronic headaches due to the tension buildup created in the jaw.
4. You Have Unexplained Sinus Issues
Many people are unaware of the effect that wisdom teeth can have on sinuses. When they begin to develop in the upper jaw, it can create sinus irritation due to the teeth rubbing against the sensitive sinuses. You may also experience other sinus-related symptoms, such as sinus headaches, sinus congestion, and sinus pressure that have no other explained cause.
5. Your Gums are Inflamed or Bleeding
When your wisdom teeth begin to erupt from your gums, your gums can become tender and swollen. They may appear reddish and due to swelling, could be difficult to clean while brushing your teeth. In addition to inflammation, you may experience some bleeding of the gums in the back of your mouth when you brush your teeth, especially as your wisdom teeth are trying to erupt.
6. You Have Cysts Developing in Your Mouth
If you have wisdom teeth problems that you continue to ignore for an extended period of time, it’s possible that you may develop cysts in your mouth. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on the inner surface of the mouth. Dental cysts can continue to grow over months or years without symptoms. However, some patients may experience acute pain or pressure, difficulty chewing or swelling, and a chronic sore throat.
Contact Your Melbourne Florida Dentist Office for Information and Oral Treatment
If you are experiencing any of the above, it may be due to your wisdom teeth. In most cases, they can be safely removed to stop or prevent problems from occurring. To learn more about wisdom tooth removal, contact Artistic Touch Dentistry by calling (321) 724-1400.