How Do I Know When Wisdom Teeth Need to Come Out?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, usually between ages 17 and 25. For many people, these teeth can lead to a host of dental issues if left untreated. Understanding when wisdom teeth need to be removed is crucial for maintaining oral health. Mansouri Family Dental Care & Associates in Marietta, GA, share some key indicators that it might be time for an extraction.

7 Indicators for Removing Your Third Molars

The American Journal of Public Health reports that “Ten million third molars (wisdom teeth) are extracted from approximately 5 million people in the United States each year.” The American Dental Association recommends that wisdom teeth be removed when you experience the following conditions:

1. Pain in the Back of the Mouth: One of the most common signs that wisdom teeth need to be removed is pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth. This pain can occur as the teeth begin to come in, often due to insufficient space in the jaw. If you notice persistent pain that doesn’t go away, it’s a good idea to consult a dentist.
2. Swelling and Infection: Swollen gums around the wisdom tooth or recurrent infections can be a clear sign of problems. If your gums are red, painful or bleeding, it may indicate that the wisdom teeth are impacted—meaning they’re stuck in the jawbone or gums. Infections can lead to serious health complications, so it’s important to seek treatment quickly.
3. Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth often become impacted, which means they don’t fully break through the gums. This condition can lead to crowding of the neighboring teeth, misalignment and even damage to adjacent roots. If your dentist detects that your wisdom teeth are impacted through X-rays or oral examinations, they may recommend removal.
4. Cyst Formation: In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts—fluid-filled sacs around the tooth. These can damage the jawbone and nearby teeth. If a cyst is detected, your dentist will likely recommend the extraction of the wisdom teeth to prevent further complications.
5. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth: If you experience pain or difficulty when opening your mouth wide, this can be another indicator that your wisdom teeth are causing issues. This tightness can be a result of inflammation or infection around the wisdom teeth and should not be ignored.
6. Crowding Other Teeth: If you notice that your other teeth are shifting or becoming crowded, it could be due to the emergence of your wisdom teeth. Because wisdom teeth grow at the back of the mouth, they can push against neighboring teeth, causing misalignment. In such cases, the preventive removal of the wisdom teeth may be essential to maintain your smile.
7. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular visits to the dentist play a critical role in monitoring the development of your wisdom teeth. Your dentist will use X-rays to assess the position of your teeth and determine if your wisdom teeth could pose a problem in the future. They can provide guidance on when might be the best time for removal based on your individual circumstances.

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but it’s important to be aware of the signs that indicate potential issues. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, consult your dentist for an evaluation.

Marietta Wisdom Tooth Removal

If you’re considering having your wisdom teeth removed, don’t hesitate to contact the dental professionals at Mansouri Family Dental Care & Associates. We can offer personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your needs. Early detection and intervention can help prevent more serious complications down the road, ensuring that your oral health remains intact.