Persistent Pain and Discomfort: Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Your mouth goes through various stages of growth, and one hallmark of reaching adulthood is the emergence of your wisdom teeth. These teeth, also known as your third molars, are the last to break through the gums, typically appearing in your late teens or early twenties. While for some, they come in without a hitch, for others, these teeth can cause a significant amount of pain and problems, leading to the need for removal.
 

Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Issues

One of the first signs that you may have issues with your wisdom teeth is the onset of pain and irritation. As these teeth start to push through your gums, they can cause a dull, throbbing pain in the back of your jaw. This discomfort may come and go, but it often intensifies as the tooth continues to emerge.
 

Another indicator is the appearance of swelling and redness in the gums around the area where a wisdom tooth is coming in. This inflammation can signify that there isn't enough room in your mouth for the tooth, or it's growing at an angle and pushing against other teeth. Infection, known as pericoronitis, can also occur if a wisdom tooth partially breaks through the gum, creating a flap where food and bacteria can get trapped.
 

If you begin to have trouble or discomfort while chewing or biting, this could also be a sign that your wisdom teeth are to blame. As they push against your other molar teeth, they may create alignment issues or bite interference, which can make normal eating a painful experience.
 

Common Problems Caused by Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are those that are unable to fully emerge through the gums, either because there is not enough space or because they are coming in at an incorrect angle. Misalignment can cause damage to adjacent teeth, lead to crowding, and even affect the overall alignment of your teeth, requiring orthodontic interventions.
 

Wisdom teeth are situated at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If left unaddressed, these conditions can compromise not only the health of the wisdom teeth but also the surrounding teeth and gum tissue.
 

In some cases, cysts or tumors can develop around an impacted wisdom tooth. These growths can cause damage to the jawbone and require additional treatments beyond just the removal of the tooth itself. While rare, these issues highlight the importance of monitoring your wisdom teeth and addressing problems early.
 

Benefits of Wisdom Teeth Removal

Removing problematic wisdom teeth can provide immediate relief from the pain and discomfort you've been experiencing. Once recovered from the procedure, you'll likely find a significant improvement in your ability to eat comfortably and without pain.

Having your wisdom teeth removed can prevent future dental problems, such as decay, gum disease, and the need for more complex dental work. By addressing the issue early, you can save yourself from more extensive and costly treatments down the line.
 

With the removal of wisdom teeth, especially if they're impacted or difficult to reach, you'll likely find it easier to maintain good dental hygiene. With fewer hard-to-reach places in your mouth, you can more effectively prevent plaque buildup and keep your mouth healthier overall.
 

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth can be a source of significant discomfort and lead to a host of dental issues if they don't come in correctly. Recognizing the signs and symptoms that you need extraction is crucial for maintaining your oral health. The benefits of wisdom teeth removal are numerous, from alleviating pain to preventing future problems and improving your ability to keep your mouth clean.
 

If you're experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, redness, swelling, or difficulty chewing, don't hesitate to consult with Dr. Kozloski. She can assess the situation and determine if your wisdom teeth are the culprits.
 

If you think your wisdom teeth may be causing you trouble, reach out to Dr. Kozloski today. Visit kksmiles at our office in Marietta, Georgia. Please call 770.830.3700 to schedule an appointment.