Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have no problems with their wisdom teeth, others may face complications, such as impacted wisdom teeth. When wisdom teeth do not have enough room to emerge or grow normally, they become impacted, causing various symptoms and potential oral health problems. Furthermore, this post will explore symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, why they occur, and how they can affect your overall dental health.
If you’re considering wisdom teeth removal in Toronto, this post will provide valuable insights.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth are teeth that do not fully emerge through the gums due to insufficient space or abnormal growth patterns. This impaction can cause various issues, as the teeth may become trapped beneath the gum or press against neighboring teeth. Moreover, there are two types of impaction: partial impaction, in which the tooth is only partially visible, and full impaction, in which the tooth remains entirely below the gum surface.
Read More: Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Understanding The Basics
Common Impacted Wisdom Teeth Symptoms
When wisdom teeth become impacted, they can cause a variety of uncomfortable or even painful symptoms. Recognizing these warning signs early can help to avoid more severe complications. Here are some common impacted wisdom teeth symptoms to watch out for:
1. Pain and Discomfort
Pain is one of the most common symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth. It may radiate from the back of your mouth and extend to your jaw, ear, or head. The discomfort is frequently caused by pressure from the impacted tooth on neighboring teeth or inflammation of the surrounding tissue.
2. Swelling and Redness of Gums
Swollen and tender gums are another common sign of impacted wisdom teeth. Brushing or eating may cause the gums around the affected area to become red, inflamed, or even bleed. This irritation occurs when a partially erupted tooth creates a flap of gum tissue, allowing bacteria to become trapped and cause infection.
3. Jaw Stiffness and Swelling
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause swelling around the jaw, resulting in stiffness and difficulty opening the mouth fully. This symptom is frequently accompanied by pain in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. Jaw stiffness can also affect your ability to chew or speak comfortably.
4. Bad Breath and Unpleasant Taste
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is another indicator of impacted wisdom teeth. A partially erupted tooth can form pockets where food debris and bacteria accumulate, resulting in an unpleasant taste in your mouth and persistent bad breath. This issue often accompanies infections like pericoronitis, which can develop around the impacted tooth.
5. Headaches and Earaches
The pressure and inflammation caused by impacted wisdom teeth may cause headaches or earaches. The pain from the impacted tooth can spread to other areas of your face and head, causing frequent headaches and ear discomfort.
The primary cause of symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth is a lack of space in the jaw. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge, so there is often insufficient space for them to grow correctly. As a result, they may press against neighboring teeth, become trapped under the gum, or grow at abnormal angles. Other factors, such as genetics, can also influence whether a person develops impacted wisdom teeth.
Complications from Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of complications. These include:
- Infection: A trapped tooth can provide an ideal environment for bacteria, resulting in gum infections such as pericoronitis.
- Cysts: A fluid-filled sac may form around an impacted tooth, damaging the surrounding bone and teeth.
- Tooth Crowding: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against adjacent teeth, causing misalignment and crowding.
- Tooth Decay: Partially erupted wisdom teeth are more difficult to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and decay.
Treatment Options
If you are experiencing symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, you should see a dentist. Your dentist will assess the severity of the impaction and may recommend the following treatments:
- Observation: In some cases, your dentist may choose to monitor the impacted tooth if it isn’t causing immediate problems.
- Extraction: The most common treatment option for impacted wisdom teeth is extraction. A general dentist or an oral surgeon can perform this procedure, which is usually recommended to avoid future complications.
- Medication: If an infection is present, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to address the issue before proceeding with other treatments.
Also Read: Wisdom Teeth Removal Costs
Recognizing the early signs of impacted wisdom teeth is critical for avoiding long-term dental problems. If you have symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, such as pain, swelling, or bad breath, you should consult a dentist to determine the best treatment option. Smile Dental in St. Clair, Toronto, provides comprehensive dental care, including wisdom tooth evaluation and extraction. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have impacted wisdom teeth. Early intervention can help you avoid discomfort and more serious dental problems in the future.
