When to Remove Wisdom Teeth: Signs You Should See a Dentist

Q: When to Remove Wisdom Teeth: Signs You Should See a Dentist

Hello, Miss： Thank you for your inquiry. <br>I would like to respond to your question and provide the following advice： If your wisdom tooth is severely impacted and cannot fully erupt, making it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene, it is likely to cause recurrent inflammat

Wisdom teeth?

I have wisdom teeth, and they hurt a lot.
After seeing a dentist, he said that if they continue to grow, I should have them extracted.
However, I'm really in pain! How much do they need to grow before I can go to the hospital to have them removed? Do they just need to break through the gums, or is there a specific point when they need to be extracted?

Zeng s, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/04/25

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to respond to your question and provide the following advice: If your wisdom tooth is severely impacted and cannot fully erupt, making it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene, it is likely to cause recurrent inflammation around the crown, leading to pain and swelling.
In such cases, it is recommended to extract the wisdom tooth.
Wishing you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2009/04/25

More Info

When it comes to wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, there are several factors to consider regarding their removal. Wisdom teeth typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. However, not everyone will experience issues with their wisdom teeth, and some may not even develop them at all. Here are some signs and considerations that indicate when you should see a dentist about the possibility of having your wisdom teeth removed.

Signs You Should Consider Wisdom Tooth Removal
1. Pain and Discomfort: If you are experiencing significant pain in the back of your mouth, this is often a clear sign that your wisdom teeth may be impacted or causing problems. Pain can be a result of the teeth pushing against neighboring teeth, leading to pressure and discomfort.

2. Swelling and Infection: If you notice swelling in your gums or jaw, or if you have developed an infection, it is crucial to seek dental care. Infections can occur when wisdom teeth do not fully emerge and become trapped beneath the gum line, leading to pericoronitis (inflammation of the gum tissue around the tooth).

3. Crowding of Other Teeth: Wisdom teeth can cause crowding, which may lead to misalignment of your other teeth. If your dentist observes that your wisdom teeth are pushing against your molars or causing your other teeth to shift, extraction may be recommended.

4. Cysts or Tumors: In some cases, wisdom teeth can lead to the formation of cysts or tumors in the jaw. These can damage the surrounding bone and teeth, making it essential to remove the wisdom teeth to prevent further complications.

5. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth: If you find it painful or difficult to open your mouth fully, this could indicate that your wisdom teeth are causing issues that require attention.

When to See a Dentist
You should see a dentist if you experience any of the above symptoms. It’s important to have a professional evaluation, which may include X-rays, to determine the position of your wisdom teeth and whether they are likely to cause problems in the future.

Timing for Removal
While some people may need to have their wisdom teeth removed as soon as they begin to emerge, others may not need to have them extracted unless they start causing issues. If your wisdom teeth are partially erupted and causing pain, it is advisable to consult your dentist as soon as possible.
In some cases, dentists may recommend a proactive approach, suggesting removal even if the teeth are not currently causing problems, especially if they are impacted or if there is a high likelihood of future complications.

Conclusion
In summary, if you are experiencing pain, swelling, or any other concerning symptoms related to your wisdom teeth, it is essential to consult with your dentist. They can provide a thorough examination and recommend the best course of action. Remember, early intervention can prevent more severe complications down the line, so don’t hesitate to seek help if you have concerns about your wisdom teeth.

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