Signs You Need To Remove Your Wisdom Teeth
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the back of your mouth. They typically appear in your late teens or early twenties, and most people have four wisdom teeth.
Why do you need to remove your wisdom teeth?
Not everyone needs to remove their wisdom teeth, but there are several reasons why you might need to:
- Your mouth is too small to accommodate your wisdom teeth
- Your wisdom teeth are impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath your gums and cannot emerge
- Your wisdom teeth are causing pain or discomfort
- Your wisdom teeth are causing damage to adjacent teeth
- Your wisdom teeth are causing gum disease or tooth decay
What are the signs you need to remove your wisdom teeth?
Here are some of the signs that you might need to remove your wisdom teeth:
1. Pain or discomfort
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are causing problems. This pain can be intermittent or constant and may be accompanied by swelling or redness.
2. Difficulty opening your mouth
If you are having trouble opening your mouth fully or if you feel like your jaw is stiff, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are impacted or infected.
3. Swelling or redness
If you notice swelling or redness in the back of your mouth, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are infected or impacted.
4. Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
If you have bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that doesn't go away with brushing or mouthwash, it could be a sign of an infection in your wisdom teeth or gums.
5. Headaches or earaches
If you are experiencing headaches or earaches that don't seem to have any other cause, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are impacted or infected.
What is the process for removing wisdom teeth?
If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, your dentist or oral surgeon will perform the procedure. The process typically involves:
- Numbing the area around your wisdom teeth with local anesthesia
- Making an incision in your gums to access the teeth
- Removing the wisdom teeth
- Closing the incision with stitches
Conclusion
If you are experiencing any of the signs listed above, it's important to talk to your dentist or oral surgeon about the possibility of removing your wisdom teeth. While not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, it's better to address any potential issues sooner rather than later.
