Wisdom teeth are your third molars, and they typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. For some individuals, these teeth erupt without any problems. For some, they cause pain and swelling and other problems for your teeth. By understanding wisdom teeth removal signs, you can act early and save your oral health. While every person is different, many symptoms are common among those with wisdom teeth problems. Recognizing them is the first step to deciding whether or not you should visit a dental professional for advice.
Pain and Swelling in the Back of the Mouth
One of the earliest symptoms of wisdom teeth problems is pain at the back of your mouth. This pain can feel dull or sharp and may increase when you eat or speak. Swelling is also common, and it may be hard to open your mouth wide or chew comfortably. You might also notice redness and tenderness in the gums behind your molars. These signs often mean that your wisdom teeth are coming in at the wrong angle or are stuck under the gums, a condition known as impaction. If not treated, this can lead to infection or damage to nearby teeth.
Tender or Bleeding Gums
If your gums are bleeding, feel sore, or appear swollen around the area where your wisdom teeth should be, this can be a warning sign. As the teeth begin to push through the gums, they may only break partway through, creating a flap of tissue where food and bacteria can get trapped. This often leads to infections and bad breath.
If brushing and flossing become painful in that area, you should consider seeing a dentist in SW Calgary for a proper checkup and possibly an X-ray to see how your wisdom teeth are growing.
Crowding or Movement of Other Teeth
When there is not enough space for your wisdom teeth to grow in properly, they can push against your existing teeth. This can cause crowding or make your teeth shift out of place. People who have had braces may find that their smile starts to change again. If your teeth are beginning to move or feel tight, wisdom teeth extractions in SW Calgary might be the solution to prevent more serious dental issues.
Frequent Infections and Gum Issues
Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can make it easier for infections to develop. You may experience pain, bad breath, swelling, or even a bad taste in your mouth that does not go away. These infections can come and go but will usually return if the tooth is not removed.
If this sounds familiar, you may need wisdom teeth extractions near you to stop the cycle of discomfort and keep your gums healthy.
Headaches or Jaw Pain
Sometimes, the pressure from wisdom teeth growing in the wrong direction can spread beyond your mouth. You might feel tension in your jaw, headaches, or pain in your ears and neck. These problems are more common when the wisdom teeth are impacted and pushing on nerves or other teeth.
If you have these symptoms along with discomfort in the back of your mouth, it might be time to look into when to remove wisdom teeth with the help of a dental expert.
Difficulty Chewing or Opening Your Mouth
As wisdom teeth grow, they can create pressure that makes chewing painful. You might also feel stiffness when opening your mouth wide or speaking for long periods. These symptoms can affect your eating habits and daily comfort.
This could mean that your wisdom teeth are putting pressure on your jaw or are stuck beneath the surface, needing removal before they cause more problems. It is always smart to speak with a dentist near you when your daily routine is affected by oral pain.
Cysts or Damage to Nearby Teeth
In some cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth. These are fluid-filled sacs that can damage the roots of nearby teeth or even your jawbone. You may not feel these cysts right away, but regular dental visits and X-rays can catch them early.
A dentist can let you know if these hidden issues are present and whether removal is the best option to protect your mouth from long-term damage.
Wisdom Teeth Should Not Be Ignored
Wisdom teeth problems can sneak up on you. What starts as mild pain can quickly turn into something more serious. The key is to know the warning signs and get help early. Whether it is gum pain, shifting teeth, or difficulty chewing, there are many ways your wisdom teeth can affect your daily life.
Do Not Wait Until It Gets Worse; Take the First Step
If you are feeling discomfort, noticing changes in your mouth, or simply want peace of mind, a professional dental exam can help. At Richmond Dental Clinic, we are here to guide you through every step of the process and make your experience easy and comfortable. Book your appointment today and let our team help you protect your health and your smile.