Wisdom tooth extraction is a very common procedure, with around 5 million people undergoing it every year. In many cases, wisdom teeth can cause a variety of oral health problems, including infections, gum inflammation, and damage to the surrounding teeth. Also, wisdom teeth can negatively affect the smile by causing overcrowdedness or improper bite. However, not every person needs to remove their wisdom teeth, especially if they do not cause any issues. Please read our article to learn the signs your wisdom teeth should be extracted.
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Should Be Extracted
After careful examination, your dentist will decide whether your wisdom teeth need extraction. However, below are the signs that you might need to consult a specialist about your wisdom teeth removal.
Your Wisdom Teeth Cause Pain
Any toothache or pain in the mouth is a sign that a visit to your dentist is in order. The pain caused by wisdom teeth will be located at the back of your mouth. If your wisdom teeth have not erupted yet, the pain will most likely feel like something is pressing or pushing through your gums. In some cases, you might feel pain in other areas of the mouth, jaw, or face. If the pain is persistent or returning, make an appointment as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your oral health.
Your Gums Have Swollen
Often, there is not enough space for wisdom teeth in the mouth. This causes them to grow in the wrong direction or prevents them from erupting from the gums partially or at all—a condition called impacted wisdom teeth. Thus, the gums surrounding wisdom teeth become painful and constantly inflamed, which is a prevalent reason for removing wisdom teeth.
Wisdom Teeth Cause Teeth Crowding
Another problem caused by the lack of space for wisdom teeth in the mouth is that they can start pushing your other teeth and make them shift out of position. This can create crowding of the rest of the teeth and reverse the results of orthodontic treatments you may have had in the past. Overcrowded teeth not only cause aesthetic issues but are also harder to clean properly, which can cause various dental health problems. If there is a risk of your wisdom teeth moving the rest of your teeth, it is essential to remove them as soon as possible before they can cause significant damage to your smile.
Wisdom Teeth Have Cavities or Tooth Decay
If your wisdom teeth have small cavities but do not cause any other issues, a dentist can treat them just like any other tooth. However, in most cases, the position of wisdom teeth makes it challenging to clean them properly, and the cavities return after treatment. Recurring cavities can be a reason for wisdom teeth extraction as it will prevent the infection from constantly lingering in the mouth.
If wisdom teeth are severely decayed, have a dentist remove them right away, as removal is more effective than a complex root canal treatment.
Wisdom Teeth Cause Jaw Issues
In some cases, wisdom teeth that do not have enough space in the mouth or grow at the wrong angle can prevent your jaw from opening and closing properly and comfortably. TMJ (temporomandibular joints) can also cause this problem, so consult your dentist to establish the root of the problem. If your wisdom teeth are to blame, removing them might fix the issue altogether.
Wisdom Teeth Cause Damage to the Surrounding Teeth
Wisdom teeth that grow at the wrong angle can damage the roots of the surrounding teeth, making them more susceptible to bacteria and plaque, which can lead to cavities and tooth decay.
You Feel Increased Sinus Pressure
The roots of wisdom teeth are relatively long and are closely located to the sinuses. Accordingly, the roots can apply pressure to the sinuses and cause discomfort or pain in the face or make your head feel heavy.
Wisdom Teeth Cause Cysts
Sometimes, the sacs in the jawbone where wisdom teeth develop fill with fluid. This causes cysts that can become inflamed and cause infection in the mouth, damaging the surrounding teeth, nerves, and jawbone. In rare cases, cysts can even lead to tumors. Cysts around wisdom teeth are a sign that you and your oral health will benefit from timely extraction.
Make an Appointment Today
If you have signs that your wisdom teeth should be extracted, do not hesitate to call our dental office today and make an appointment with one of our specialists. We will carefully assess your case and suggest the most effective course of action. We look forward to welcoming you to La Mirada One.