5 Signs it’s Time to Get your Wisdom Teeth Removed

17 Dec 5 Signs it’s Time to Get your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Wisdom teeth are the set of third molars that typically appear in early adulthood between the ages of 15 and 25. They are the last set of permanent teeth to grow and begin surfacing when the rest of an individual’s teeth have been established for some time. When this happens, crowding may occur and subsequently – a great amount of discomfort.

When wisdom teeth begin to surface it is referred to as an “eruption.” If this sounds like a violent event – well, it can be. When wisdom teeth partially erupt they cause pain and swelling.

Conversely, when wisdom teeth are unable to erupt, they are referred to as being “impacted.” This is usually caused by orientation of the teeth and lack of space. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to impingement, infection, and other conditions.

So when, if ever, should you have your wisdom teeth examined? Here are 5 signs it might be time to get your wisdom teeth removed.

1. Jaw pain and discomfort
As wisdom teeth begin to grow in blocked or misaligned ways they put increasing pressure on surrounding teeth and the whole jawline. The result may be pain or an uncomfortable stiffness sensation. As wisdom teeth erupt and press on nerves and bone, this pain may become more intense.

2. Red and swollen gums
Just like most injuries, redness and swelling are signs of stress in the body. Wisdom teeth can cause redness, tenderness and swelling around the site. As a result chewing and other normal functions may become difficult.

3. A “crowded” feeling in your mouth
You know the feeling when you’re in packed elevator or shopping line? Imagine that feeling in your mouth! Wisdom teeth grow and begin to put pressure on surrounding teeth, trying to displace them. This leads to swelling of gums and jaw muscles – in turn crowding the mouth even more. You may even notice your tongue seems swollen and gets in the way when you eat or speak.

4. Facial swelling
Pain, pressure, and overcrowding may lead to swelling of the jaw. Sometimes the swelling can also be pronounced in the cheekbones and other areas of the face leading to the appearance of “chipmunk cheeks.” Pain may or may not be present with swelling.

5. Bad breath
It may sound silly, but foul breath may be a sign of a deeper issue. When bacteria multiply they produce waste, and like so many other waste products – it smells really bad. Wisdom teeth can cause gum flaps to form, trapping food particles underneath and allowing bacteria to eat and grow unhindered.

Treat Your Wisdom Teeth Symptoms
Oral health has been shown to impact the overall wellness of the human body. Never ignore possible wisdom teeth symptoms. Although the recommendation is to remove wisdom teeth prior to age 25, any patient may be a candidate for wisdom teeth removal depending on the patient’s needs.

Get the peace of mind that comes with scheduling your examination with Dr. Mazen Duraini today.

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