Third molars, which are also called wisdom teeth, are the last adult teeth to erupt. They usually come in sometime between a person’s late teens and early twenties. Though some people’s wisdom teeth emerge without any issues, impacted wisdom teeth are not uncommon. Fortunately, your dentist can help. Read on to learn about what causes this, signs that you have an impacted wisdom tooth, and how to treat it.
What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
So, how exactly does a wisdom tooth become impacted? Wisdom teeth become impacted when they don’t have enough room to erupt, are obstructed, or don’t develop properly. Some teeth line up perfectly behind the second molars, but impacted wisdom teeth get stuck below the surface of the gums. When wisdom teeth grow at an angle, this may lead to complications.
6 Warning Signs of an Impacted Wisdom Tooth
As previously mentioned, some wisdom teeth grow in without creating any issues. Unfortunately, that isn’t usually the case. There are a few things you should look out for that are signs of an impacted wisdom tooth, such as:
- Tender, bleeding, red, or swollen gums
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- A weird taste in your mouth
- Swelling around the jaw
- Oral or jaw pain
- Bad breath
What to Do About an Impacted Wisdom Tooth
It may not be apparent right away that you have an impacted wisdom tooth, but it will become obvious to you when one or more of the above complications arise. This can cause more than just discomfort. An impacted wisdom tooth may end up damaging the adjacent teeth or bone, so it’s important to receive treatment as soon as possible.
To protect your smile from further harm, set up an appointment with your dentist as soon as you notice warning signs. They will do a thorough examination of your oral cavity and determine what the issue is. They will then help you set up an appointment to come in and have the tooth extracted. Before the extraction, they will administer a powerful numbing agent to ensure that you remain completely comfortable throughout the procedure. For patients who need a little extra help feeling calm or comfortable, you can ask your dentist about dental sedation.
More than 50% of Americans have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. Though complications with third molars are common, your dentist can help. If you have any symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth, make an appointment with your dentist so you can be on your way to a pain-free beam!
About the Practice
Donald Marks Family Dentistry is led by Dr. Donald Marks, a skilled dentist who treats patients in State College and the surrounding communities. If you have an impacted wisdom tooth, they can extract it to end any pain or discomfort you’re experiencing and prevent oral health issues from arising. To make an appointment with Donald Marks Family Dentistry or for more information on impacted wisdom teeth, visit their website or call their office at (814) 234-0329.
