Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 24 and can cause discomfort and irritation if they grow improperly. Wisdom teeth have become obsolete over time. Our ancient ancestors required these extra teeth to properly chew a diet based on tough foods and raw meat.
Today, wisdom teeth removal may be necessary since there is insufficient space in the modern jaw to accommodate these extra molars.
Sudden Pain And Swelling
The most common sign of wisdom teeth eruption is sudden pain. Initially, the pain may be mild, but if it becomes unbearable and is accompanied by severe swelling, it is advisable to see a dentist for an examination. If there is a problem or complication with your wisdom teeth, it may require extraction to alleviate the pain and discomfort.
Inflammation And Mouth Sores
If you don’t get your wisdom teeth checked by a professional, there’s a higher chance of inflammation, which can cause painful sores around the site. This could escalate into further pain and infection, which might necessitate the removal of your wisdom teeth.
Jaw Stiffness
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars located at the back of the mouth. As they grow, they naturally exert pressure on the jaw. However, if the position of wisdom teeth is not aligned correctly, it can increase pressure, resulting in jaw stiffness. This, in turn, can cause pain, restricted jaw movement, and even TMJ pain if left untreated. Dentists recommend extraction to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
The primary reason for impacted wisdom teeth is the lack of space in the mouth. Wisdom teeth usually don’t have enough space to grow and get trapped in the gums, disrupting the bite structure. This can cause other issues, which may require tooth extraction.
Damage To Adjacent Teeth
Wisdom teeth often grow diagonally due to limited space in the mouth. This can put pressure on the nearby teeth, causing damage that may require a root canal. Additionally, the constant pressure can also negatively affect the bite. Dentists often recommend removing these diagonally positioned wisdom teeth to prevent these problems.
Infection
Wisdom teeth can get infected like regular teeth. Extraction is the best solution if a root canal does not help relieve pain.
Sinus Pain
Sinus and oral health are closely connected. Wisdom teeth, being very close to the sinuses, can cause pain and congestion. Removing wisdom teeth can be beneficial if they persistently cause discomfort in daily activities.
Crowded Teeth
As the human mouth gets smaller, teeth have less space available. When the third molar grows, it can lead to crowding and an uneven bite. This crowding can negatively impact your appearance and put pressure on the jaw, which can cause significant problems.
If you are experiencing discomfort or pain due to wisdom teeth or are unsure of the cause behind your dental and facial pain, we recommend you consult with Dr. Fares Sbaiti, a family dentist in Mississauga. Book a consultation today with Dr. Fares Sbaiti in Mississauga at Roseborough Dental for a complete dental health analysis and wisdom teeth removal.