Wisdom Teeth

The last set of teeth that emerge in adults are the back wisdom teeth. These back molars normally begin to develop around the age of 18, but could emerge anywhere from age 17 to the late 20’s. Some patients may have up to four wisdom teeth, while others none! Wisdom teeth are a set of back molars, but not everyone has room for them to emerge. Wisdom teeth can cause many complications in your mouth when developing. If needed, your dentist will recommend the removal of your wisdom teeth to prevent complications or to help alleviate problems. Many adults need to have their wisdom teeth removed for various reasons. Left untreated, wisdom teeth can harm other teeth and cause much pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Developing

The following symptoms may occur if you are having trouble with your wisdom teeth emerging:

• Swollen gums or jaw
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Jaw pain
• Bad breath or bad taste in mouth
• Trouble opening your mouth
• Headaches
• Infection in the gums

Causes of Wisdom Tooth Pain

• Impaction

  An impacted wisdom tooth happens when there is not any room in the jaw for the teeth to grow. An impacted tooth can be very painful if not removed as it pushes on surrounding teeth or can become infected easily.

• Partial eruption

  When a wisdom tooth grows in at an improper angle, it may only erupt partially. This means part of the tooth is above the gums and the rest still embedded into the jaw. A partial eruption of a wisdom tooth can lead to bacteria forming below the gumline. This bacteria can cause infection, discomfort and pain.

• Tumors or cysts

  Impacted teeth left untreated can lead to tumors or cysts. If this happens, your dentist can help address your pain and recommend treatment before these tumors and cysts cause harm to the rest of your mouth or body as a whole.

Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom teeth may need to be either extracted or surgically removed. Many times, due to their position, wisdom teeth require advanced surgical extraction in order to protect the integrity of the jaw and surrounding teeth. Wisdom teeth can be carefully removed, saving you from pain and discomfort, now or in the future. If you have complications with your wisdom teeth, your dentist can examine them, perform x-rays, and give you the best plan for treatment. If you are looking for help with your wisdom teeth in Raleigh, NC, call today to schedule a visit!