How Do You Know When You Need to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge in the late teens or early twenties. While some people never experience problems with them, many patients eventually need their wisdom teeth removed to protect their oral health. Knowing the warning signs can help you take action before discomfort turns into a more serious issue.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to develop, typically appearing after the rest of your adult teeth are already in place. Because the jaw often doesn’t have enough room to accommodate these additional teeth, wisdom teeth may grow improperly or fail to fully erupt.

Pain or Discomfort in the Back of the Mouth

Persistent pain, pressure, or throbbing near the back of your jaw is one of the most common indicators that your wisdom teeth may be causing trouble. This discomfort can worsen when chewing or opening your mouth wide.

Swollen or Tender Gums

Red, swollen, or bleeding gums around the wisdom teeth can signal inflammation or infection. This condition, known as pericoronitis, occurs when bacteria become trapped around a partially erupted tooth.

Jaw Stiffness or Difficulty Opening Your Mouth

If you notice stiffness, soreness, or limited movement in your jaw, impacted wisdom teeth may be placing pressure on surrounding tissues or nerves.

Crowding or Shifting Teeth

Wisdom teeth can push against nearby teeth as they try to erupt, potentially causing crowding or undoing previous orthodontic treatment.

Frequent Headaches or Ear Pain

Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes cause referred pain, leading to headaches or discomfort that radiates toward the ears or temples.

Repeated Infections or Bad Breath

Food and bacteria can easily get trapped around partially erupted wisdom teeth, leading to recurring infections, unpleasant tastes, or chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing.

When Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted

Wisdom teeth are considered impacted when they don’t have enough space to fully emerge. They may grow at an angle, remain trapped beneath the gumline, or press against neighboring teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth often don’t cause immediate pain, which is why regular dental exams and X-rays are essential for early detection.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed. If your wisdom teeth come in straight, fully erupt, and are easy to clean, removal may not be necessary. However, many patients benefit from proactive removal to prevent future pain, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth.

Find Out If Wisdom Teeth Removal Is Right for You

Knowing when you need your wisdom teeth removed isn’t always obvious, especially if symptoms are mild or develop slowly. Pain, swelling, jaw stiffness, crowding, or recurring infections are all signs that your wisdom teeth may be affecting your oral health. Regular dental checkups play a key role in identifying potential problems early and determining whether removal is the best option for you.

Schedule a consultation at Midtown Dental Center to evaluate your wisdom teeth and create a personalized treatment plan to keep your smile healthy and comfortable for years to come. Visit our office in Atlanta, Georgia, or call (404) 874-0800 to book an appointment today.