Wisdom teeth, or molars at the rear of your mouth, are so-called because they arrive when you are finally grown (and presumably wise). It’s difficult to foresee whether or not these molars will give you difficulties, but if you’re having discomfort in your gums and jaw, you could be wondering if you have impacted wisdom teeth. We treat wisdom teeth from all throughout the Waupaca region at Crystal River Dental. Let me explain what impacted wisdom teeth are and what to do if you have them.

What Are Wisdom Teeth That Have Been Impacted?

Your wisdom teeth are your third and last set of molars. They normally appear between the ages of 17 and 21, while some people’s wisdom teeth do not appear until much later, if at all. Wisdom teeth, like all other teeth, are anticipated to break through the gums and become fully visible as they erupt. In certain cases, wisdom teeth remain deep in the jawbone or never break through the gums. The wisdom teeth are affected in this example.

Have you ever tried to cram one more book into an already overflowing bookshelf? It’s a similar circumstance when your last set of teeth falls into an already-full mouth. There may not be enough space for them, and they may remain affected under the gums.

A wisdom tooth may also be affected if it grows sideways or twisted and directly into another tooth.

Some dentists prefer to remove wisdom teeth before they cause issues. Early removal typically indicates a quicker recovery.

Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Impaction

Sometimes wisdom teeth emerge or remain impacted without a hitch. However, if you are suffering any of the following symptoms, you may have impacted wisdom teeth that require treatment:

• Irritated, red, swollen gums at the rear of the mouth
• Discomfort when opening your mouth
• Jaw discomfort that keeps you up at night
• Bad breath
• Bad taste when biting down

How to Treat Wisdom Teeth Impaction

Our dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine whether you have impacted wisdom teeth. If the teeth do not need to be pulled or removed, you can take pain medication and utilize a warm saltwater rinse to comfort your gums. If an impacted tooth is creating issues in the rest of your mouth or jaw, the dentist will most likely want to physically remove it—this is known as extraction. Wisdom teeth extraction might cause soreness in your mouth for a few days, so you may need to miss work or school and consume only safe, soft foods.

If you believe you have impacted wisdom teeth or have any other questions, please contact Crystal River Dental as soon as possible! To be proactive about your dental health, call (715) 258-8200 now. That is a good decision.