Many people experience symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, but few are aware of the signs and symptoms of the condition and the implications it can have for oral health. Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the third molar does not properly grow in, or the mouth does not have enough space for it to emerge. Here, we discuss the signs and symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth to help you stay in the know.
What are Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third and last set of molars located in the back of the mouth. They typically erupt between the ages of 16 and 25, though they can emerge even earlier or much later in life. These late-erupting teeth often don’t have enough room in the mouth, leading to the possibility of them becoming impacted.
What is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that doesn’t have enough space to emerge from the gumline. It is stuck in the gum tissue and bone, unable to grow out properly. Impacted wisdom teeth are the most common type of problem tooth.
Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Many people have impacted wisdom teeth without knowing it. Here are some signs that your wisdom teeth are impacted:
Pain
Pain is one of the most obvious and common signs of an impacted wisdom tooth. Pain can occur in the back of the jaw, around the side of the mouth, or in the entire jaw area. If you are experiencing pain, it is important to seek dental help as soon as possible to inspect the area and determine what treatment is needed.
Infection
Infection can be a sign of impacted wisdom teeth. If the impacted tooth is unable to break through the gum line, bacteria can accumulate in the pocket and cause infection. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, and tenderness in the area. An abscess can also form if the infection spreads to the surrounding tissue.
Tender Gums
If an impacted wisdom tooth is present, the surrounding tissue can become very sensitive to the touch. The gums can become red and tender, even when they are not infected. This tenderness can occur anytime, but it is more common around the edges of the gums, where the wisdom tooth is trying to emerge.
Jaw Discomfort
The presence of an impacted wisdom tooth can lead to Jaw discomfort. The discomfort can come in the form of pain, pressure, or even headaches. The jaw joint may also feel stiffer or more difficult to open and close.
Difficulty Eating
Difficulty eating can be a sign that an impacted wisdom tooth is present. Since the tooth is stuck in the gum and bone, there is less room for other teeth to move. This can cause pain and lead to difficulty chewing or biting down on food.
Crowded Teeth
An impacted wisdom tooth can cause overcrowding in the mouth. If there is not enough room for the wisdom tooth, the other teeth may shift to make room. This can lead to misalignment and gaps in between teeth.
Bad Breath
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to bacteria buildup and bad breath. The bacteria produced when the wisdom tooth is stuck in the gums can accumulate and cause a foul odor.
Conclusion
Impacted wisdom teeth can often have painful and uncomfortable symptoms, but with early diagnosis and treatment, they can be successfully managed. If you suspect you have impacted wisdom teeth, speak to your dentist to determine the best course of action.
Don’t let impacted wisdom teeth go untreated. Let the experts at Sudbury Dental Arts help you get your oral health back on track. We provide restorative and cosmetic dental services in Sudbury to help keep your mouth healthy and looking great. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.
