If you’ve been feeling discomfort in the back of your mouth, you might be wondering whether it’s time to consider wisdom teeth removal. Early signs are something that can be known to avoid major complications in the future. In this blog, we will discuss the symptoms that signal you need some teeth removed, what to expect in the process, and why it is essential to get it done as early as possible before it damages your oral health.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
The third type of molars, referred to as wisdom teeth, grow during the age of 17-25 years. Although they were once crucial for early humans to chew raw plant material, today, they often cause problems, including impaction, infection, or alignment issues.
They may lead to or cause more serious dental problems when the wisdom teeth are not erupted correctly or when there is insufficient space for their eruption. Here are the typical warning signs to be observed.
1. Pain and Swelling in the Back of Your Mouth
One of the most common indicators that you might need wisdom teeth removal in Spokane, Washington, is pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth. You may also experience soreness, gum swelling, or tenderness in the region. If the pain persists or worsens, seek advice from a dentist. Affected teeth may develop cysts or infections, which pose a risk to your general health.
2. Periodontal Disease or Periodontal Inflammation
When your wisdom teeth are emerging, they can cause inflammation (redness and swelling) of the surrounding gum area. If a tooth does not erupt properly, the surrounding gum tissue may become trapped around the tooth, leading to an infection. The clinical term for this condition is pericoronitis, and it can cause significant discomfort.
If you are experiencing bad breath, problems opening your mouth, and a swollen neck or lymph nodes along with your gum swelling, you should seek a dentist for further evaluation.
3. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth or Chewing
When you find it difficult to open your mouth or chew because of affected teeth under pressure, then it is time to consider removal. Angled or impacted wisdom teeth may press on other teeth, causing pain during daily activities and potentially harming the surrounding teeth.
4. Crooked or Shifting Teeth
The wisdom teeth, which are pushing the others, can cause them to become crooked or misplaced. This has the potential to destroy prior orthodontic work and cause bite problems. Regular attendance at dental clinics allows detection and intervention before it is too late.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
5. Jaw Pain and Headaches
Often, wisdom teeth cause pain in the jaw or head. Issues arise due to impacted wisdom teeth or insufficient jaw space. As a result of the impaction, pressure builds up on the nerves in the jaw and radiates down into the jawbone, causing discomfort in the jaw and teeth while chewing. Individuals who regularly rub their jaws or experience headaches should take these seriously.
6. Cysts or Other Serious Problems
An extreme case of impaction can lead to the formation of cysts that erode bone and adjacent teeth, as well as the surrounding bone structure. A cyst forms when the tissue surrounding an impacted wisdom tooth swells with fluid and develops into a sac-like structure filled with a substance that would be identifiable as a cyst. Failure to seek treatment for a cyst may lead to permanent injury. Thus, monitoring for early signs and symptoms of cyst formation is essential to prevent long-term damage; consult your dentist as soon as you start noticing signs.
When Should You Get Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Provided you observe the above factors, make a dental appointment. Many dental practices, including Trailhead Dental, offer wisdom teeth removal in Spokane, Washington, to help residents manage this issue. Pain, infection, or misalignment are among the reasons dentists often recommend removal. The earlier the treatment, the fewer complications are possible.
The Benefits of Early Wisdom Teeth Removal
Early removal of wisdom teeth helps in avoiding numerous complications, including:
- Infection or cysts capable of spreading to the adjacent tissues.
- Damage or displacement of the adjacent teeth.
- Long-term pain and discomfort.
What You Need to Know When Undergoing the Procedure
Before extracting teeth, your dentist will have an X-ray to determine the location of every tooth. The majority of removals are done under a local anesthetic, but sedation or general anesthesia can be applied in cases of several teeth or nervous patients.
Recovery is usually swift. Swelling, discomfort, and mild bruising may occur, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. Following your dentist’s postoperative instructions will help you recover faster and more comfortably.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Smile Healthy
If your wisdom teeth are causing you problems, it’s essential to seek professional advice before they lead to more serious issues down the line. Having an idea of the early indicators of wisdom tooth issues will help you manage and prevent potential complications. If you see any symptoms listed above, contact a dental office immediately.
Trailhead Dental is here to guide you through the process of wisdom teeth removal in Spokane, Washington, offering personalized care and a comfortable experience. If your wisdom teeth are causing you problems or you have been considering having them extracted, please call us at Trailhead Dental today!
Schedule Your Appointment at Trailhead Dental
If you have pain, discomfort, or other symptoms related to your wisdom teeth, please do not wait! Our staff at Trailhead Dental cares about your oral health and will work with you to find a treatment plan to help you avoid further complications. Scheduling a consultation with our team is the first step toward a life free from dental discomfort!
FAQs
How Will I Know if Wisdom Teeth Should Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth should be removed if they are causing you pain or have become infected or misaligned, as well as if they are posing a problem when chewing food. If you have questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth, schedule a dental appointment.
Are There Risks Associated with Having Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There are risks associated with having wisdom teeth removed, but they are rare. Some complications you may encounter include infection, nerve damage, or excessive bleeding. However, these complications are unlikely to occur if an experienced and professional dentist removes your wisdom teeth.
When is the Best Time to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
The best time to have wisdom teeth removed is in your late teens and early twenties. During this timeframe, the likelihood of developing problems related to your wisdom teeth is lower, and you will recover faster than if you were older.
What Can I Eat Following Wisdom Tooth Removal?
After having your wisdom teeth removed, it is essential to stick to soft, pureed foods (e.g., applesauce, mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies) for the first 4 days after surgery. It is also critical that you refrain from eating hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as these can irritate the site and slow your healing.
How Long Will I Need to Recover After Having Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Most individuals can complete the recovery process and return to normal activities within 3-7 days. Your swelling and discomfort should have diminished by the 3rd-4th day if you are following the appropriate care plan.
