Warning Signs for Wisdom Teeth Removal You Shouldn't Ignore

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in our mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Often, insufficient space in the jaw for these teeth to grow correctly leads to various dental problems. 

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but it is essential to recognize the signs that indicate the need for extraction. In this post, we will discuss the common signs that suggest you need a wisdom tooth removal.

Signs You Need Wisdom Tooth Removal

1. Pain and Discomfort

One of the most apparent signs that you need wisdom tooth extraction is experiencing pain and discomfort in the back of your mouth. This pain can be constant or intermittent and may worsen while chewing or biting down. 

It can also radiate to your ears, neck, or jaw, causing further discomfort. The pain occurs when your wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they do not have enough space to grow correctly and are pressing against other teeth or the jawbone.

2. Swelling and Inflammation

If your wisdom teeth are impacted or growing at an angle, they can irritate the surrounding gum tissue, causing swelling and inflammation. The gum tissue may become red, tender, and bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing. 

In some cases, the inflammation can lead to the development of an infection called pericoronitis, which requires immediate attention from your dentist.

3. Difficulty in Opening Your Mouth

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pressure and pain in the jaw joint, making it difficult for you to open your mouth fully. This limited range of motion can affect your ability to eat, speak, or maintain proper oral hygiene. 

Once you notice any difficulty in opening your mouth, it is crucial to consult with your dentist to determine if wisdom tooth removal is necessary.

4. Persistent Bad Breath and Unpleasant Taste

When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge correctly, they can create pockets in the gums where bacteria and food particles can accumulate. These pockets can be challenging to clean, leading to persistent bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. 

Infections in the area surrounding a wisdom tooth are known as pericoronitis. Aside from bad breath, symptoms include swelling, redness, and pus discharge. If you experience these symptoms despite maintaining good oral hygiene, it might indicate that you need a wisdom tooth extraction.

5. Crowding and Misalignment

Another sign that your wisdom teeth may need to be removed is if they are causing crowding or misalignment of your other teeth. When there is insufficient space for wisdom teeth to erupt, they can push adjacent teeth out of their proper position, leading to bite problems and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. 

In such situations, removing the wisdom teeth can help preserve the health and alignment of the surrounding teeth and prevent the need for orthodontic treatment.

6. Cysts or Tumors

For rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of cysts or tumors in the jawbone. 

These growths can cause significant damage to the bone, teeth, and nerves in the surrounding area. If your dentist detects a cyst or tumor during a dental X-ray, they will likely recommend wisdom tooth extraction to prevent further damage.

When Wisdom Tooth Extraction Is Not Necessary

Impacted wisdom teeth typically don't cause any issues. However, because they don't play a significant role in proper chewing and speaking, many individuals choose to remove them to prevent potential movement and effects on teeth and jaw alignment. 

Not everyone actually needs to have this expensive procedure performed. In certain circumstances, dentists may advise against tooth extraction, such as:

• Wisdom teeth are developing in the correct location and will not impact the individual's ability to bite.
• Wisdom teeth either grow in the correct position and align properly with the adjacent teeth or may not align properly and cause issues while biting.
• Wisdom teeth are in good condition.
• Wisdom teeth have completely come out.
• Wisdom teeth enable effective cleansing as part of one's regular dental care regimen.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that can help prevent various oral health problems. It is crucial to recognize the signs that indicate the need for extraction and consult with your dentist as soon as possible. 

With timely intervention, you can avoid complications and enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile for many years.

Searching for a dentist in Rogers, Arkansas? Come to Exo Dental, where we offer a wide range of services, including digital dentistry, dental implants, and oral surgery procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction for both adults and teenagers. Contact us now to schedule your initial dental extraction appointment.