Wisdom Tooth Pain: Should You Consider Extraction?

Q: Wisdom Tooth Pain: Should You Consider Extraction?

Hello： Whether wisdom teeth need to be extracted depends on their direction and position. <br>Modern individuals tend to consume softer foods from a young age, resulting in less robust jawbone development. <br>As a result, when wisdom teeth begin to emerge around the age of 18, t

Mild pain in the wisdom teeth?

Hello, Doctor: After my recent health check-up, I went to the dentist due to several cavities.
An X-ray revealed that three out of my four wisdom teeth are impacted.
This doesn't seem good! Two of them are relatively flat, but one is not as flat.
The dentist mentioned that this could lead to some issues in the future.
Upon reflection, I've noticed that I often experience some dull pain in the area behind my right molars, which corresponds to the location of the impacted wisdom tooth.
Do I need to have it extracted? If I wait a while longer to address this, could it lead to any problems? I would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you!

Xiao Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/07

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Hello: Whether wisdom teeth need to be extracted depends on their direction and position.
Modern individuals tend to consume softer foods from a young age, resulting in less robust jawbone development.
As a result, when wisdom teeth begin to emerge around the age of 18, there often isn't enough space, leading to impaction, which can manifest as angled or horizontally positioned teeth.
The gums may cover the tooth, making it difficult to clean and often resulting in pericoronitis, causing pain.
In severe cases, this can lead to buccal cellulitis, resulting in difficulty closing the mouth.
It is advisable to have them removed while still young when the bone is not as dense, as this will not compromise the health of the second molars.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng, Dentistry.

Reply Date: 2006/07/07

More Info

Wisdom tooth pain can be a significant concern, especially when the teeth are impacted or growing in an abnormal position. In your case, with three out of four wisdom teeth growing at an angle, it is essential to understand the potential implications and whether extraction is necessary.

Firstly, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various dental issues. When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge properly, they can become trapped in the jawbone or gums, leading to pain, swelling, and infection. The fact that you are experiencing pain in the area of the misaligned wisdom tooth suggests that it may be causing pressure on adjacent teeth or leading to inflammation in the gums. This discomfort can be a sign that the tooth is not only misaligned but also potentially causing complications such as pericoronitis (inflammation of the gum tissue around the tooth) or even damage to neighboring teeth.

The recommendation from your dentist to consider extraction is prudent. While it may be tempting to delay the procedure, there are several reasons why addressing the issue sooner rather than later is advisable:
1. Preventing Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections that may require more extensive treatment if left untreated. An infection can also spread to other areas, causing systemic issues.

2. Avoiding Damage to Adjacent Teeth: The pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth can shift neighboring teeth, leading to misalignment and bite issues. This can complicate future dental work and may necessitate orthodontic treatment.

3. Reducing Pain and Discomfort: If you are already experiencing pain, waiting may exacerbate the situation. Extraction can provide immediate relief and prevent further discomfort.

4. Simplifying Future Dental Care: Removing problematic wisdom teeth can simplify your dental care routine. It reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease that can arise from difficult-to-clean areas around impacted teeth.

In terms of timing, while some individuals may choose to wait until they experience more severe symptoms, it is generally recommended to address impacted wisdom teeth proactively. If the pain is manageable and you prefer to wait, ensure you maintain excellent oral hygiene and monitor the situation closely. However, if the pain worsens or you notice swelling, it would be wise to consult your dentist promptly.

In conclusion, given the current state of your wisdom teeth and the pain you are experiencing, it would be advisable to consider extraction sooner rather than later. This approach will help prevent further complications and ensure your overall dental health remains intact. Always discuss your concerns and options with your dentist, who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

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