Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. While some teenagers or young adults have no issues, others experience discomfort from the lack of space in their mouths, leading to pain, infection, or crowding. Understanding the reasons behind extraction can help ease any anxiety about the procedure.
When there is insufficient room for your wisdom teeth to grow correctly, it can lead to a host of dental problems. These include impacted teeth, which can increase the risk of infection, abscesses, and damage to neighboring teeth. Wisdom teeth are often best removed in your late teens or early twenties, even if they aren’t causing problems yet.
Common Signs You May Need A Wisdom Tooth Extraction
It is important to recognize signs that you may need wisdom teeth removal to prevent oral health problems in the future. Below are some common indicators that a wisdom teeth extraction is necessary:
Pain in the Back of Your Mouth
One of the first signs patients experience is discomfort or pain in the back of their mouth. The pain may be mild to severe and may occur intermittently or persistently. Wisdom tooth pain is typically due to pressure from the wisdom teeth on adjacent teeth or from an infection.
Persistent pain is a signal that you should consult with your dentist or a specialist like Dr. Christopher Pottorff, an oral surgeon in Algonquin. Ignoring the pain may lead to more severe issues down the line, such as cysts or tumors around the affected tooth.
Swollen, Tender, or Bleeding Gums
Swelling and tenderness in the gums around the wisdom teeth are common signs of potential issues. Sometimes, the gums may bleed when brushing or flossing near the wisdom teeth. These symptoms could indicate an infection or that the wisdom teeth are starting to erupt but lack space. Swollen gums can also trap food particles, leading to decay and more infections.
Jaw Pain and Stiffness
If you experience pain or stiffness in your jaw, it could be due to impacted wisdom teeth. Teeth become impacted when there is not enough room for the wisdom teeth to break through the gums. Jaw pain can result from the teeth pressing against each other, causing discomfort not only in the jaw but also potentially leading to headaches. Stiffness can also make it difficult to open your mouth entirely.
Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
Some patients experience consistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in their mouth, which is a signal of wisdom teeth problems. When wisdom teeth partially erupt, they can create pockets that trap food and bacteria, causing persistent halitosis. If mouthwash and brushing don’t solve the problem, it’s worth checking whether your wisdom teeth are the culprits. This is a sign that professional dental intervention is needed.
Crowding or Shifting Teeth
Wisdom teeth can push against your existing teeth as they attempt to break through. This pressure can cause your teeth to shift or become crowded, undoing orthodontic work like braces. Monitoring any changes in your dental alignment is crucial. Shifting teeth might not only affect your smile but can also cause bite problems, leading to difficulty in chewing.
Sinus Issues
Believe it or not, wisdom teeth can impact your sinuses. The upper wisdom teeth, when impacted, can press against the sinuses, leading to congestion, pressure, or pain. If you notice increased sinus pressure or persistent nasal issues coinciding with the eruption of your wisdom teeth, it might be time to consult your Algonquin dentist or our surgeon at Advanced Dental & Implant Care.
Frequent Infections
At times, the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth becomes infected. If you experience frequent infections or swelling, it might be time to consider removal. Ongoing infections can complicate oral hygiene and may spread to other areas of your mouth. Early removal can prevent these complications.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it may be time to consult a professional. An oral surgeon like Dr. Christopher Pottorff at Advanced Dental & Implant Care in Algonquin can evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of action.
Schedule A Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Choosing the right oral surgeon is critical. Dr. Christopher Pottorff is an ABOI board-certified oral surgeon known for his expertise in dental implant surgery and wisdom teeth extractions. Contact Advanced Dental & Implant Care at (847) 854-1200 to schedule a wisdom teeth extraction with our ABOI board-certified oral surgeon, Dr. Christopher Pottorff. We treat young adults and teenagers for wisdom teeth extractions from Huntley, Carpentersville, Crystal Lake, and many surrounding cities.