Is It Time to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed? Signs You Can't Afford to Ignore

Wisdom teeth are the final molars of your mouth, which emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. In some individuals, they erupt with no complications. However, in others, they result in pain, swelling, or other problems. If you’ve noticed discomfort in the back of your mouth, it might be time to talk to a dentist in Brigham City. They can check your wisdom teeth and recommend the right solution. Many people delay treatment, but ignoring the signs can lead to bigger problems later.

Wisdom teeth complications are frequent. Dentists usually advise them to be removed before they damage the adjacent teeth or gums. Let us discuss the signs that indicate it may be time for them to be extracted.

Ongoing Pain in the Rear of the Mouth

One of the most noticeable symptoms is recurrent or aching pain in the back of your mouth. The pain might ebb and flow, but it tends to get worse with time. The pain is often caused by the pressure of the wisdom teeth rubbing against surrounding teeth or the gum tissue. If you experience pain upon chewing or when opening the mouth wide, do not take it lightly.

Swelling or Redness Around the Gums

Swollen, red, or sore gums in the area of the back molars are common symptoms of an impacted or infected wisdom tooth. Inflammation indicates the gums are attempting to fight infection or irritation. You might also experience bleeding from brushing near this area. If this persists, the gum infection spreads and creates other oral health problems.

Difficulty Opening Your Mouth

If your jaw is stiff or sore, or you have difficulty opening your mouth, your wisdom teeth could be responsible. Impacted teeth may force against the jaw and surrounding nerves, causing tension and restriction of movement. This can hinder eating, speaking, or yawning.

Crowding of Other Teeth

When wisdom teeth emerge, they might not have sufficient room. When this occurs, they rub against other teeth and cause crowding. This can reverse years of orthodontia or distort your bite back into misalignment. If your front teeth begin to overlap once more, your wisdom teeth could be the culprit.

Headaches or Earaches

Many people don’t realize that wisdom teeth can also trigger headaches and ear pain. These symptoms happen when pressure builds up in your jaw or when an infection spreads. If you’re experiencing frequent headaches with no clear cause, check with your dentist to see if your wisdom teeth are the problem.

Signs of Infection or Bad Breath

Bad mouth, a bad taste in your mouth, or pus along the gums may all indicate an infection in the area of the wisdom teeth. Infections can develop in the small crevices between the gum and tooth when the area is hard to clean. If left untreated, this may progress to more serious complications.

If you see any of these symptoms, it could be time to have wisdom teeth removal in Brigham City. Local dentists can do an examination and take X-rays to check if your wisdom teeth are damaging. Removing them early will avoid pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth.

Wisdom teeth aren't always something that has to be removed. However, when they hurt or otherwise cause problems, it's best to act sooner rather than later. Don't let the pain get out of hand. Call a Brigham City dentist to receive the care that you need. They'll examine your teeth and walk you through the process.

Taking care of your oral health today prevents bigger issues tomorrow. If you’re unsure, schedule a consultation and let your dentist decide if wisdom tooth removal is right for you.