5 signs you need a wisdom tooth extraction
Wisdom teeth, sometimes called the third set of molars, are the last teeth to erupt through the gums in the back of the upper and lower jaws. If wisdom teeth are misaligned and do not have enough space to break through the gums, they can crowd or damage nearby teeth, the jaw bone or nerves.
When these molar teeth become impacted, toothache will occur. This means the third molars stay enclosed in the gums or jawbone or partially erupt. Partially erupted teeth are more susceptible to infection, tooth decay and gum disease.
Misaligned and infection will require wisdom tooth removal. The most common time for wisdom teeth to erupt is in the late teens to early twenties. Scheduling regular dental exams and x-rays is the best way to monitor your oral health and prevent future pain.
The following symptoms might indicate your wisdom teeth are impacted.
Jaw pain and stiffness.
An impacted wisdom tooth can cause pain in the jaw. Without adequate pain relief opening the mouth can be difficult.
Red, swollen or bleeding gums.
Inflammation in the area around the tooth can cause gum pain. This inflammation can make chewing food difficult or even painful.
Facial swelling.
Severe swelling can occur with gum inflammation. Often this is a sign that impacted wisdom teeth have become infected.
Bad breath.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean. Food and bacteria trapped between the teeth and gums can cause foul breath.
Unpleasant taste in your mouth.
Infection around the gums and jaw can result in an unsavory taste in your mouth.
