impacted wisdom tooth

Wisdom teeth are usually the last set of your teeth to erupt into your mouth. Sometimes they don’t all come in at the same time, and sometimes it takes months for them to fully make an appearance. There is even a small percentage of people whose wisdom teeth never form, so they don’t ever have to worry about them whatsoever. Then there are other instances where the wisdom teeth are impacted (or even bring extra teeth along with them!)

What is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

Wisdom teeth usually erupt between the ages of 17 to 25 years of age. By this time, all the other teeth have already fully developed. At that point, wisdom teeth may not always have the space they need to erupt properly. But that doesn’t stop them from trying. They will continue pushing and pressing into what’s next to them. This can cause them to erupt at an angle or only partially through the gums. Or, it could be fully embedded underneath and not visible at all. All of these teeth are considered “impacted.”

 

Do Impacted Wisdom Teeth Hurt?

As wisdom teeth continue to grow in, they can begin to cause discomfort at the back of the jaw. But irritation does not always mean they are impacted; when any tooth is breaking through the gums there will always be some amount of discomfort. If the pain gets worse or persists, then there is a good chance the tooth is impacted.

Left alone, impacted wisdom teeth can cause damage to the tooth in front of them or interfere with the surrounding bone and nerve structures. In either case, having them removed is the best option for your overall oral health.

When to Remove Impacted Wisdom Teeth

How do you know if you need to have your wisdom teeth extracted? First, it’s always good to keep your regular dental checkups. This way your dentist can take the proper x-rays needed to keep an eye on your wisdom tooth development and instruct you on possible treatment, if necessary. Depending on certain signs and symptoms, they can refer you to our Midlothian oral surgeon at the appropriate time. Or, you can contact our office directly.

Here are some signs and symptoms to out for:

  • Swelling in your mouth, cheeks, or jaws
  • Tender and bleeding gums behind your back teeth
  • Pain or discomfort at the back of your upper or lower jaw
  • Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth
  • Bad breath

Ellis County wisdom teeth extractions are a common solution to a very common problem. Removing problematic wisdom teeth is something the Texas Institute of Oral, Facial and Implant Surgery specializes in. Our expert has years of training and experience to help our patients get their healthy smiles back on track.

 

Impacted Wisdom Tooth Removal, Ellis County

For more information about wisdom teeth extractions, sedation, the procedure, and recovery, contact our office in Midlothian today. We can see you for a consultation and review the best treatment options with you. Call us today!