Like Pulling Teeth: Signs You May Need a Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If you’re experiencing pain in your mouth, one of most common culprits are your wisdom teeth.

These third molars are the last teeth to emerge, and they usually arrive in our late teens or early twenties, often leaving little room for them to grow correctly. The unpredictable nature of how, where and when wisdom teeth will sprout forth causes many a headache (literally) for the poor, unfortunate soul afflicted.

Unruly wisdom teeth cause all sorts of issues if they become impacted or partially emerge from the gums. The good news is that extraction is a common and straightforward procedure for dentists and oral surgeons alike.

So, how do you know if it’s time to say goodbye to your wisdom teeth?

In this article, we’ll take you through the tell-tale signs that your wisdom teeth may need to be removed.

  • You’re experiencing pain or discomfort.

    The most common sign that you need a wisdom tooth extraction is pain or discomfort.

    Pain in the back of your mouth near your molars can signify the onset of your wisdom teeth popping up.

    When wisdom teeth start to appear, gum swelling can occur, leading to increased pain and discomfort around the back teeth.

     If this is the case, it is essential to consult your dentist to determine the best treatment option.

  • There is swelling or infection.

    Wisdom teeth can cause swelling in the gums or an infection if they are not coming in correctly. This can be a sign of impacted wisdom teeth, meaning they have not properly appeared through the gum line. This makes it difficult to clean and can lead to gum disease.

    You may have an infection if you experience swelling, tender gums, or a bad taste in your mouth. This infection can spread to other parts of your mouth, causing additional problems.

    See a dentist or oral surgeon if you notice a lump or swelling in the back of your mouth.

  • Your teeth are crowding or shifting.

    Another sign that your wisdom teeth may need to be extracted is if your teeth are starting to shift or become crowded.

    Wisdom teeth push against the adjacent molars and can cause them to shift, ultimately causing misalignment and bite problems. This makes it more challenging to clean your teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

    To prevent more severe oral health problems, it is best to remove the wisdom teeth.

  • You experience more regular oral hygiene issues.

    If you notice that you are experiencing more regular oral hygiene issues than usual, it may be due to your wisdom teeth. As your wisdom teeth continue to grow, they can be challenging to clean and brush effectively. This can result in food particles getting trapped in the gum tissues, increasing bacteria and plaque build-up.

    If you are experiencing problems with oral hygiene, it is essential to speak with your dentist, as it may be time for your wisdom teeth to be removed.

What is the next step?

While many people may never experience the joy that is wisdom tooth pain, the unlucky bearers of these wily teeth can experience everything from pain to infection and even more severe issues.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, it’s better to book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

The decision to have your wisdom teeth removed is not always easy. However, it is essential to pay attention to the warning signs that suggest extraction may be necessary. If you are feeling pain or discomfort, experiencing swelling or infection, notice your teeth are crowding or shifting, or experiencing more regular oral hygiene issues, it may be time to consult your dentist about removing your wisdom teeth.

They can help you determine whether your wisdom teeth need to be extracted and the best way forward. It’s always better to catch any potential issues early to avoid further complications.

Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing discomfort or anything unusual in your mouth.

With the right care and help from a dental professional, you can get back to enjoying a healthy, pain-free smile in no time.

Share with someone who may need a gentle nudge that it’s time to address those pesky molars.