What are impacted wisdom teeth? Signs and Symptoms

Impacted wisdom teeth are the most common complication associated with the emergence of your third molars. If the third molars do not have enough space in the mouth to grow, they are impacted and should be removed as soon as possible. Wisdom teeth usually emerge between the ages of 14 to 25.

Below, learn everything you need to know about the signs and symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth and what you should do if your wisdom teeth are impacted.

What are the signs and symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth?

Your third molars are the last to appear in the back of your mouth between 14 to 25 years old. Given the late arrival of your third molars, they garner the nickname “wisdom teeth.” Impacted wisdom teeth don’t have enough room when they emerge and cause a host of oral health complications in the process.

You have four wisdom teeth, but they don’t always emerge at the same time. Some patients’ wisdom teeth don’t erupt through their gums at all, but wisdom teeth should still be removed. The problem with wisdom teeth is that the human mouth no longer needs them; thus, the jaw has evolved only to accommodate only 28 teeth. The vast majority of people do not have space for 32 teeth.

How do I know if my wisdom teeth are impacted?

Most patients know their wisdom teeth are coming in because their emergence causes pain and discomfort. You might not realize that your wisdom teeth are emerging at all. Some patients’ wisdom teeth grow without presenting immediate health concerns. However, they remain a liability that could cause problems down the road. Extracting the wisdom teeth is critical to safeguarding the stability of your healthy teeth, jaw, and gums. The symptoms and signs of impacted wisdom teeth include:

• Bad breath
• Persistent bad taste in your mouth
• Swollen jaw
• Sensitive jaw
• Swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Sensitive gums
• Pain in the back of your mouth
• Hard time opening your mouth
• Discomfort when brushing or flossing near your molars

Should you get your wisdom teeth extracted?

Oral surgeons recommend every patient undergoes a wisdom teeth extraction as soon as the molars develop. The long-term ramifications of failing to address impacted wisdom teeth can include gum disease, tooth decay, jawbone resorption, and other issues. Contact your oral surgeon immediately if you are experiencing pain, discomfort, sensitivity, or trouble brushing in the back of your mouth near your last molars. Call our Warren New Jersey office today at Warren Oral Surgery Phone Number 908-222-7922 to schedule a consultation to determine if your wisdom teeth are impacted.