The Top 5 Signs You Need Wisdom Teeth Removal: Are You at Risk?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have no issues with these late-blooming teeth, others may experience discomfort, crowding, or even infection. Understanding the signs that indicate wisdom teeth removal is necessary can help you avoid future complications and protect your oral health. Here are the top five signs you might need your wisdom teeth removed.
 

1. Persistent Pain or Discomfort

One of the most common warning signs is ongoing pain in the back of your mouth. This discomfort may feel dull, sharp, or throbbing and can radiate to your jaw, neck, or ear. If the pain doesn't go away or worsens, it could be due to impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth that are pushing against surrounding teeth.
 

2. Swelling and Inflammation

Red, swollen gums around your back molars can be a sign of pericoronitis; an infection that occurs when wisdom teeth don't fully emerge. Swelling may also affect your jaw and face. Left untreated, inflammation can lead to more serious infections and impact your ability to chew or speak comfortably.
 

3. Crowding or Shifting Teeth

If you’ve recently noticed your teeth shifting or becoming misaligned, your wisdom teeth may be to blame. When there isn’t enough space for them to grow in properly, they can push against neighboring teeth, causing crowding or reversing the effects of previous orthodontic treatment.
 

4. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth or Chewing

Trouble opening your mouth fully or pain while chewing could be linked to impacted wisdom teeth. The pressure from these teeth can affect your jaw function and even lead to TMJ symptoms if left unaddressed.
 

5. Frequent Infections or Bad Breath

Repeated gum infections or chronic bad breath near the back of the mouth might indicate bacterial buildup caused by partially erupted wisdom teeth. Since they’re harder to clean, wisdom teeth can become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
 

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs

Wisdom teeth don’t always cause symptoms, which is why regular dental checkups and X-rays are essential. If you're experiencing any of the signs above, it may be time to discuss wisdom teeth removal with your dentist. Early evaluation and treatment can help prevent pain, infections, and long-term dental issues.
 

Schedule a Consultation Today

Wisdom teeth can often go unnoticed - until they start causing problems. From persistent pain to shifting teeth, recognizing the warning signs early can help you avoid more serious dental issues down the road. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action sooner rather than later.
 

Contact Midtown Dental Center to schedule a dental exam and discover if wisdom teeth removal is right for you. Contact our office in Atlanta, Georgia, by calling (404) 874-0800 to book an appointment today.