Ah, wisdom teeth – those late arrivals to the dental party that often cause quite a stir. At Epsom Dental, we understand the importance of knowing when and how to address impacted wisdom teeth to ensure optimal oral health.
While they’re called “wisdom teeth”, there aren’t many people who would refer to them as wise on account of the pain they can cause.
Continue reading below to learn the signs of impacted wisdom teeth, along with when and how to seek treatment.
Understanding Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. However, due to limited space in the mouth, these teeth may become impacted. This means they are unable to fully erupt through the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various complications, including infection, pain, and damage to adjacent teeth.
Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
How can you tell if your wisdom teeth are impacted? Here are some common signs and symptoms to watch out for:
Pain or Discomfort:
Persistent pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth. Especially when chewing or opening the jaw, may indicate impacted wisdom teeth.
Swelling:
Swelling and tenderness in the gums or jawline near the back of the mouth can be a sign of impacted wisdom teeth.
Difficulty Opening the Mouth:
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause stiffness or difficulty opening the mouth fully, particularly if the teeth are putting pressure on surrounding tissues.
Bad Breath:
Impacted wisdom teeth can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Difficulty Brushing or Flossing:
If you have difficulty reaching the back of your mouth to brush or floss due to pain or discomfort, it may be a sign of impacted wisdom teeth.
When to Address Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Not all impacted wisdom teeth require immediate treatment, but it’s essential to monitor them closely and seek professional evaluation if you experience any of the signs mentioned above.
Your dentist can assess the position of your wisdom teeth using X-rays and recommend the appropriate course of action based on your individual circumstances.
Treatment Options for Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If impacted wisdom teeth are causing symptoms or pose a risk to your oral health, your dentist may recommend extraction. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure performed to remove impacted or problematic wisdom teeth. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the process.
If you suspect your wisdom teeth are causing trouble, don’t ignore the signs and book an appointment with your trusted dentist right away.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth – Is It Time To Have Them Removed?
Impacted wisdom teeth can pose significant challenges to oral health if left untreated. By recognising the signs of impacted wisdom teeth and seeking timely evaluation and treatment, you can prevent complications and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
At Epsom Dental, we’re here to support you every step of the way on your dental journey. If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth or would like to schedule an evaluation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team – we’re here to help!