As you hit your teenage years, you may believe that the days of teething and dental soreness are far behind you.
For over 90% of the population, there are a few more teeth that are waiting to come through; wisdom teeth.
While some people can comfortably accommodate all 4 wisdom teeth in their mouths, for people who have smaller jaws or cramped, overcrowded teeth, the eruption of these teeth between the ages of 11 and 17 can be problematic.
So, with that in mind, what are some of the signs that you may need to see a dentist Bondi Junction to have your wisdom teeth removed?
Persistent discomfort
OK, so when you have erupting teeth, there is going to be some discomfort.
But, once your wisdom teeth have erupted, if that discomfort persists around the eruption site and is accompanied by pain that is spreading along your jaw, that is a sign that these teeth may need to be taken out.
Impaction
Wisdom teeth are molar teeth and as such, when they erupt, they are more prone to erupting at unusual angles. Especially if you have a smaller mouth!
So, it is common for dental teams to observe wisdom teeth that are erupting at odd angles or, more likely, pushing against surrounding teeth under the gum line. This is called impaction.
Should your dental team diagnose this with an x-ray, the best course of action is to remove these teeth to prevent infections and damage to the teeth that they are pushing against.
Infections
Recurring infections around a wisdom tooth is a sign that it is going to be a problem.
If infections persist past the eruption of the tooth, your dental team will want to remove them to stop any damage to the jaw and the surrounding teeth.
If you aren’t sure if you have an infected wisdom tooth but notice a fever, feeling ill or persistent pain, talk to your dental team.
Sinus infections
A prominent issue when the upper set of wisdom teeth are a problem, recurring sinus infections can be a sign that an extraction is needed.
If you have a fever, nasal discharge, pain in your sinuses and persistent bad breath, it is time to talk to a dental team about wisdom tooth removal.
Mouth mobility
Can you open your jaw wide? Were you able to do so before your wisdom teeth erupted?
If you can’t open your jaw without discomfort around the jaw joint or further towards the front of the mouth, this can indicate nerve inflammation and muscle issues related to the wisdom teeth.
If you are having problems chewing food and even swallowing food since your wisdom teeth came through, these are also signs that an extraction may be required.
Wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth can safely fit in your mouth and if there isn’t an issue, they should be left alone.
Talk to your dental team about an examination of these teeth specifically if you think there is a problem.
DISCLAIMER
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.