Wisdom teeth are the third, final set of molars that erupt when a person is in their late teens or even early twenties. Some people never have problems with their wisdom teeth, while others suffer from severe pain due because their wisdom teeth don't have enough room to come out. Wisdom teeth can become twisted or tilted when they don't have enough room, and this can cause significant pain for the individual. When this occurs, wisdom teeth will need to be removed surgically to avoid further complications. Some people don't even know that their wisdom teeth are impacted, but find out a routine dental visit.  

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth are Impacted

As your wisdom teeth try to erupt, the gum tissue above your wisdom teeth can become swollen, red and even bleed. While this can be a normal part of getting your wisdom teeth, if your gums are swollen and the teeth never arrive, it's time to see the dentist. If your jaw becomes swollen, you notice abnormal bad breath, or your jaw is starting to ache, you probably need your wisdom teeth removed. Even when your wisdom teeth aren't currently causing you problems, if they are impacted, removal is necessary to avoid future medical complications.

Problems from Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When you don't get impacted wisdom teeth removed, you can face serious gum disease and extensive tooth decay in the neighboring teeth. This can lead to infections of the mouth, and cause a need for major dental work in the future. Impacted wisdom teeth will eventually hurt, as they will continue to try and break to the surface, even when they don't have enough room. Your teeth can become overcrowded, and you will experience pain in your mouth eventually.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

While it may make you nervous to have your wisdom teeth removed, it's important to know that your pain will be controlled. If you only need one tooth removed, your dentist may simply use a local anesthetic. If more than one tooth needs to be removed, it's likely that your dentist will use general anesthesia so that you sleep through the procedure. The removal of wisdom teeth is a common procedure, and your dentist will be able to answer any questions you have regarding what is going to happen. Talk with your dentist about your fears, and you will learn that within a few days everything will be back to normal.

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