5 Signs You May Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Although more than five million people have their wisdom teeth removed each year, not everyone needs to have this procedure performed. If the jaw has enough space and the wisdom teeth grow in right, they can likely stay put for life.

But if they start to cause problems as they come in, wisdom teeth extraction may be necessary. Otherwise, their incorrect growth could cause damage to your other teeth, cysts on the jawbone, and other complications. To avoid those issues, it is important to see your dentist upon noticing any of the following signs you may need your wisdom teeth removed.

Pressure Under Your Gums

When wisdom teeth grow in properly, they come in place right behind your rear molars. As they grow, the bony tooth material breaks through the gums, causing immense pressure. The pressure often feels like a dull aching or throbbing pain along the jawline, usually right near the ears. Even when growing in right, the process can feel incredibly painful, making it difficult to tell if something is wrong.

For that reason, upon noticing any gum pressure, it is important to start the conversation about wisdom teeth extraction with your dentist. They can perform an examination and take x-rays to assess the situation and determine if extraction is necessary. That way, you are not left guessing about whether the pain you are feeling is normal or a sign of serious complications.

Jaw Pain and Stiffness

When there is not enough room for the wisdom teeth to grow in all the way, they may get stuck on the rear molars, becoming impacted. This may also occur if your wisdom teeth do not grow in straight.

Jaw pain and stiffness commonly arise when this happens, which makes it difficult to eat, drink, and talk. At that point, your dentist will need to take an x-ray to see the position of your wisdom teeth and create a suitable care plan.

Gum Inflammation

Gum inflammation is another warning sign telling you that there is not enough room for the wisdom teeth to come in fully. As the wisdom teeth grow, they should fully erupt through the gums into their final position, sitting at the same height as your other molars.

If that does not happen, the partially erupted teeth start to irritate the gums and cause inflammation. Your gums may look red, swollen, and irritated around the teeth that have become impacted. If you do not acquire care from a dentist, the irritation can lead to a serious infection.

Sinus Issues

As wisdom teeth start to move down toward their ideal position behind the rear molars, they put pressure on the sinuses. As this occurs, sinus pain and pressure commonly arises, making a miserable situation even worse. You may also start to feel quite congested, which increases your risk of developing a sinus infection.

If a sinus infection develops, or your wisdom teeth become impacted, the pain and pressure will likely increase, making it impossible to get comfortable. To avoid that scenario, you should go in to see your dentist at the first sign of pain around your sinuses. They will assess you to see if the pain is caused by your wisdom teeth and refer you to your doctor if that is not the case.

Facial Swelling

If your tooth or gums develop an infection, facial swelling will likely occur as a result. The swelling usually only affects the side of the face where the problematic wisdom tooth is located, though it can vary. Facial swelling of any kind should be reported to a dentist right away. Otherwise, the infection could travel to nearby tissues and even to your bloodstream.

Any Signs? Call Your Dentist to Acquire Care

Whenever you have tooth pain or any other dental health concerns, do not hesitate to make an appointment with your dentist. With a call to 704-542-9923, you can set up a time to discuss wisdom tooth extraction and other helpful treatments. Your dentistry experts will assess your dental health and find the best treatments to relieve your tooth pain fast. So, call our team today to find a convenient time to come in and see your dentist.