Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth at the back of your mouth. For many people, wisdom teeth don’t cause any issues, but for others, they may need to be removed. Look for common signs if you are unsure if your wisdom teeth should be removed. In this blog post, we’ll review these signs and how they can help you decide to see a dentist for wisdom teeth removal in Toronto.
1. Pain in the Back of Your Mouth
Pain in the back of your mouth is one of the most common signs you need your wisdom teeth removed. As your wisdom teeth emerge, they may cause discomfort in your gums, jaw, or nearby teeth. This pain may become constant or worsen over time. Persistent pain may indicate an infection, impaction, or crowding, necessitating wisdom teeth removal.
2. Swelling and Redness in the Gums
Swollen or red gums around your wisdom teeth are another clear sign that they may need removal. When wisdom teeth partially erupt, they can cause pockets in the gums where bacteria can accumulate. This can result in gum inflammation, infection, or even gum disease. Wisdom teeth removal can help to prevent further infection and protect your oral health.
Read More: Oral Surgery for Wisdom Teeth Extraction
3. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth or Chewing
If you’re having trouble opening your mouth or chewing properly, your wisdom teeth could be the cause. Impacted wisdom teeth can pressure the surrounding teeth, restricting your mouth’s movement. The pressure may make it difficult to eat or speak. Wisdom teeth removal can help to alleviate these symptoms and restore normal jaw function.
4. Recurrent Infections or Cavities
The difficulty of keeping the area clean makes partially erupted wisdom teeth prone to infection. Bacteria and food particles can become trapped between the gums and the tooth, resulting in cavities or recurrent infections. If you have frequent infections or cavities in the area of your wisdom teeth, removal is the most effective way to keep these problems from progressing.
5. Crowding or Shifting of Nearby Teeth
Crowding or shifting of nearby teeth is another sign that your wisdom teeth may need to be removed. When there is insufficient space in your mouth for the wisdom teeth to emerge, they may press against your other teeth. This can cause misalignment and affect your bite. If you notice your teeth shifting or becoming crowded, wisdom teeth removal may help you avoid future dental issues.
6. Cysts or Tumors Around the Wisdom Teeth
In rare cases, cysts or tumors can develop around impacted wisdom teeth. These growths may damage the surrounding teeth and bone, potentially leading to more serious conditions. See your dentist immediately if you notice swelling, lumps, or unusual symptoms near your wisdom teeth. Timely wisdom teeth removal can prevent long-term damage and complications.
7. Sinus Problems
Upper wisdom teeth can cause sinus problems due to their proximity to the sinus cavities. Pressure from impacted or infected wisdom teeth can cause sinus pain, headaches, and congestion. If you have these symptoms frequently, wisdom teeth removal may be the solution to relieve the pressure and prevent further sinus complications.
Also Read: Impacted Wisdom Teeth Symptoms
Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
If you experience these symptoms, you should see your dentist about wisdom teeth removal. Your dentist will most likely use X-rays to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and whether they are impacted or causing damage to other teeth or gums. Even if you are not in pain, your dentist may recommend removing your wisdom teeth to avoid future problems.
In some cases, wisdom teeth removal is recommended as a preventive measure. Many dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth before they cause serious problems, particularly for younger patients. This is because the procedure is often more straightforward when the teeth have not fully emerged, and the roots are still developing.
Recognizing the signs that you need your wisdom teeth removed is critical for avoiding future complications. Early intervention can help you avoid pain, infections, and alignment issues. If you experience any of the signs mentioned above, you must contact a dentist for an evaluation.
At Smile Dental in St. Clair, Toronto, we want to help you make informed decisions about your oral health. If you believe it’s time for wisdom teeth removal, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Contact us today to book an appointment and keep your teeth and gums healthy!
