Introduction
The wisdom tooth, or the third molar, is now a vestigial part of the human body that does not serve any specific functionality. However, just like other vestigial parts, the wisdom tooth can also be problematic in some cases when it starts growing. Wisdom teeth can start growing in the wrong direction instead of upwards, cause misalignment of teeth, or lead to unbearable pain. These problems call for removing the wisdom teeth to get rid of these issues.
In this blog, we aim to inform readers about the signs and symptoms that indicate the need for wisdom tooth removal.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow in the extreme corners of the gum line, often in the late teens or early twenties. Due to the growth of all other teeth before this period, wisdom teeth may sometimes not have enough space to grow or might start growing in the wrong directions. These situations lead to pain, swelling, misalignment, and decay that must be addressed to maintain oral health.
Common Signs That Your Wisdom Teeth May Need to Be Removed
Pain and Discomfort
Experiencing pain and discomfort during the growth of wisdom teeth may indicate impaction or infection. While normally growing wisdom teeth cause some pain, impacted teeth can cause intense pain and signs of infection.
Swelling and Inflammation
Impacted wisdom teeth can be identified by persistent pain, swelling, and inflammation in the gums and jaw. This includes redness, tenderness, and pus around the affected area.
Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
If the growth of wisdom teeth makes it difficult to open your mouth, it might be due to pain or spreading effects leading to trismus. Removing the wisdom teeth may resolve this issue.
Bad Breath and Unpleasant Taste
Bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth can be caused by an infection of the wisdom tooth or its growth.
Gum Disease and Cavities
Wisdom teeth take a long time to grow, and partial eruption can create pockets in the gums, making them prone to infections like gum disease. This can also increase the risk of cavities in adjacent teeth due to difficulty cleaning.
Complications of Ignoring Wisdom Tooth Symptoms
Impaction and Its Consequences
Ignoring problematic symptoms of wisdom teeth growth can result in tooth impaction, misalignment, and dental overcrowding, which may lead to shifting teeth and damage to their roots.
Infections and Abscesses
Wisdom teeth growth poses a risk of gum and other oral tissue infections, which can cause intense pain and discomfort.
Damage to Nearby Teeth
Impacted or infected wisdom teeth can damage nearby teeth, causing decay or wear down.
Cysts and Tumors
In rare cases, wisdom teeth can cause serious problems, such as cysts or tumors, potentially leading to bone loss.
When to See a Dentist
When you notice pain, inflammation, and pus around newly growing wisdom teeth, it may be time to visit a dentist. This inflammation can indicate an infection and is not a normal part of wisdom teeth growth. Upon visiting a dentist, an x-ray may be recommended to determine the position and health of wisdom teeth for ideal treatment.
Benefits of Early Removal
Early removal of wisdom teeth can prevent future complications like shifting teeth, damaged roots, oral infections, and bite problems. It also promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of complications, allowing for better oral hygiene and long-term oral health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, various symptoms indicate the need for wisdom teeth removal. These symptoms go beyond just pain and inflammation and may signal rising infections that can affect functionality and appearance. It's advisable to consult your dentist at the first sign of abnormal discomfort. For wisdom teeth removal in Juhu, book an appointment with us.