What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars at the back of your mouth that do not have enough space to grow. Because of this, they may stay trapped under your gums or only come out partway. Usually, people have four wisdom teeth. However, not everyone will have problems with them. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection. For this reason, many people search for wisdom teeth removal near me when symptoms appear.
Common Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Often, impacted wisdom teeth do not cause symptoms at first. Still, issues can develop over time. For example, you may notice:
Sometimes, these symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth come and go. But if they get worse, it is important to see your dentist.
Causes of Wisdom Teeth Impaction
Usually, wisdom teeth become impacted because there is not enough room in your mouth. As a result, the teeth may grow at an angle or stay trapped under your gums. In addition, genetics can play a role. If your parents had small jaws, you might also have less space for your wisdom teeth. Sometimes, nearby teeth or bone can block the wisdom teeth as well.
How Dentists Diagnose Impacted Wisdom Teeth
First, your dentist will ask about your symptoms. Next, they will look inside your mouth for signs of swelling or infection. To see the position of your wisdom teeth, your dentist will take X-rays. These images help show if the teeth are stuck, tilted, or pushing against other teeth. According to the American Dental Association, X-rays are the best way to check for dental problems like impacted wisdom teeth.
When Should Impacted Wisdom Teeth Be Removed?
Not all impacted wisdom teeth need removal right away. However, dentists often suggest wisdom teeth removal if you have:
Sometimes, even if you do not have symptoms, your dentist may recommend removal to prevent future problems. Early removal can make recovery easier, especially for teens and young adults.
Risks of Delaying Removal
Waiting too long to remove impacted wisdom teeth can lead to more serious issues. For example, you could develop:
According to the CDC, untreated dental infections can even affect your overall health. Therefore, it is important to follow your dentist’s advice about wisdom teeth removal.
What to Expect During and After Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental surgery for wisdom teeth. First, your dentist or oral surgeon will numb your mouth. Sometimes, they may use medicine to help you relax. During the procedure, the dentist will carefully remove the impacted tooth. Afterward, you may have some swelling and mild pain. Usually, this gets better in a few days. Your dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your mouth as you heal. For example, you may need to eat soft foods and avoid using straws.
Tips for Preventing Complications
After wisdom teeth removal, you can lower your risk of problems by following these tips:
With good care, most people recover quickly after dental surgery for wisdom teeth. If you have questions, your dental team can help you stay comfortable and safe.