Many people experience discomfort when their wisdom teeth come in. Sometimes, this pain is due to an impacted wisdom tooth. An impacted wisdom tooth is a tooth that does not have enough space to grow normally. As a result, it may cause swelling, pain, or infection. In this blog, you will learn about wisdom tooth pain, signs of impacted wisdom teeth, and treatment for impacted wisdom tooth problems. Understanding these issues can help you take better care of your oral health.
What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars at the back of your mouth. Usually, they appear between ages 17 and 25. However, sometimes there is not enough room for them to grow. When this happens, the tooth may get stuck under the gum or push against other teeth. This is called an impacted wisdom tooth. Because the tooth cannot come in properly, it may cause pain or other dental problems.
Common Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Not everyone has symptoms. Still, many people notice signs when a wisdom tooth is impacted. Watch for these common symptoms:
Sometimes, these symptoms come and go. However, if you notice them often, it may be a sign of impacted wisdom teeth.
Causes of Wisdom Tooth Impaction
There are several reasons why a wisdom tooth may become impacted. For example, your jaw may be too small to fit the new tooth. In other cases, the tooth may grow at an angle. Here are some common causes:
Because these causes are often out of your control, regular dental check-ups are important.
How Dentists Diagnose Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If you have wisdom tooth pain, your dentist can help. First, they will ask about your symptoms. Next, they will look inside your mouth. Often, dentists use X-rays to see the position of your wisdom teeth. X-rays show if a tooth is trapped under the gum or pushing against other teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), X-rays are the best way to check for impacted wisdom teeth. With this information, your dentist can suggest the right treatment.
Treatment Options for Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Treatment depends on your symptoms and the position of the tooth. Sometimes, no treatment is needed if there are no problems. However, if you have pain or infection, your dentist may suggest:
Most people recover quickly after wisdom tooth removal. Your dentist will give you instructions to help you heal.
Prevention and Oral Care Tips
While you cannot always prevent an impacted wisdom tooth, good oral care can help. Try these tips:
Because early care can prevent bigger problems, do not ignore wisdom tooth pain.
When to See a Dentist
If you notice swelling, pain, or trouble opening your mouth, see a dentist soon. Also, if you have a fever or pus near your tooth, get help right away. Early treatment can prevent infection and protect your other teeth. Remember, regular dental visits help catch problems before they get worse.
If you suspect your wisdom tooth is impacted, consult a dentist at Ahuja Dental Care for personalized advice and treatment.