Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically grow in between the ages of 17-25. They aren’t always functional and can grow in at an angle, crowding your mouth and creating future oral health problems. Positioned at the back of the mouth, most people develop 4, but it is not uncommon to have 1-3 wisdom teeth or even none at all.
Regular Check-ups Are Essential for Wisdom Tooth Evaluation
Although wisdom teeth may erupt between the ages of 17-25, an initial evaluation is recommended for teenagers. As you get older the jawbone and tooth roots become harder making wisdom teeth more difficult to remove.
Some dentists may encourage older teens and young adults to have their wisdom teeth removed even if they are not experiencing issues. Extraction may be recommended if the tooth doesn’t have a biting partner on the opposite arch, or if the tooth is challenging to brush and floss, making it more susceptible to decay.
Most people have their wisdom teeth removed because they simply don’t have room to erupt properly without becoming impacted or shifting adjacent teeth.
Wisdom Tooth Pain Symptoms
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Persistent Discomfort
If your wisdom teeth are hurting, they may be just growing in. When they break through the gums it can be uncomfortable because they cause swelling and soreness. Discomfort can also occur due to a lack of space and the pressure of the tooth pressing against the neighbouring teeth. When this occurs the added pressure can cause stiffness in the jaw, making it difficult to open your mouth, talk, and chew.
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Inflamed Gums
Tender, red, bleeding or swollen gums are another sign of wisdom teeth eruption. As they break through the gums they can create a flap of tissue next to the tooth that traps particles of food and bacteria. This creates a condition called pericoronitis where the gum tissue is inflamed, making it hard to keep the site clean and exacerbating the problem.
If an infection occurs, you may also experience pus and a fever, and the lymph nodes under your jaw will be swollen.
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A Cyst Forms Around the Wisdom Tooth
A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can form at the tooth’s follicle. If it goes untreated it can harm your jawbone, tooth roots, and the surrounding structures as well as become a benign tumour. While the tumours are harmless they can contribute to an infection and the deterioration of the jawbone.
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Cavities and Gum Disease
Overcrowding, teeth erupting at an angle, or gum irritation can make brushing and flossing difficult. Pockets of bacteria can collect between the teeth leading to cavities and gum disease.
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Impacted Wisdom Tooth
If a wisdom tooth becomes impacted it can cause discomfort when chewing or biting, swelling, bad breath, pain in the jaw, and difficulty opening and closing your mouth.
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Sinus Problems
When teeth grow in on the upper jaw the roots can push and rub against the sinuses creating pressure. Impacted wisdom teeth can trigger sinus issues like headaches, congestion, and sinus tension.
When to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed?
If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain symptoms then it is time to have them looked at. Using X-rays your dentist can determine if your wisdom tooth pain symptoms are caused by your wisdom teeth erupting and what the next steps may be.
The extraction of wisdom teeth is a common dental procedure. Depending on the complexity of your surgery your dentist will either use local anaesthesia or general sedation to make the procedure more comfortable. Your dentist may administer nitrous gas (happy gas) in addition to the local anaesthetic. Once the site is numb the extraction begins.
A simple extraction is carried out on a fully or partially erupted tooth. A dental elevator is used to wiggle the tooth in its socket and once the tooth is loose, forceps are used to remove the tooth.
A complex extraction is typically performed on an impacted tooth and requires an incision in the gum to access the tooth. The tooth may need to be sectioned so it can be removed in pieces and then the site is stitched closed.
Aftercare Instructions
Following your dentist’s post-operative instructions is vital to your recovery. Minimize any unnecessary discomfort and reduce the risk of complications or infection by adhering strictly to your dentist’s aftercare guidelines which may include:
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Limiting Activity
Rest is essential after tooth extraction. If possible, take 2- 3 days off school or work and limit your activity. Lie with your head slightly elevated to minimize swelling and assist with drainage. Avoid heavy lifting or exercise as overexertion can increase your blood pressure and may burst stitches or dislodge the blood clot from the empty socket causing a secondary condition called dry socket.
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Modify Your Diet
Eat soft, nutrient-dense foods such as eggs, avocado, porridge, yoghurt, and pureed fruits and vegetables. Do not drink through a straw as the negative pressure can cause the blood clot to loosen putting you at risk of dry socket.
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Apply an Ice Pack and Take OTC Medication
Ice or a cool pack applied to the side of your face can reduce swelling and inflammation to alleviate discomfort. Apply the pack intermittently for 15 minutes for the first 24 hours after surgery. Unless you have been prescribed antibiotics or painkillers, over-the-counter NSAIDs are suitable for pain relief.
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Rinse with Salt Water
To eliminate bacteria and remove food debris, rinse your mouth gently with a warm salt water solution, but avoid spitting. Instead hold your head over a sink and let the rinse fall from your mouth. A salt water rinse is also helpful for preventing infection and reducing post-operative discomfort.
Choose Wisdom Tooth Extraction at No Gaps Dental
An impacted wisdom tooth can be painful and create serious oral health problems if it is not addressed. Identifying problematic wisdom teeth early is an effective way to minimise any wisdom tooth pain symptoms and prevent your wisdom tooth from adversely affecting your adjacent teeth.
If your wisdom tooth is causing discomfort, or you experience any other wisdom tooth symptoms, call No Gaps Dental on (02) 8806 0181 for a dental exam.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.