Impacted Wisdom Teeth: What You Need to Know
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last to emerge in your mouth, typically in your late teens or early twenties. While some wisdom teeth come in without issue, many experience complications due to impacted wisdom teeth. At Goliad Dental Care, we’re here to help you understand and manage this common dental issue.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when these molars don’t have enough space to emerge or grow properly. They may grow at an angle, press against neighboring teeth, or remain trapped under the gum tissue. This misalignment can lead to discomfort and potential oral health problems if left untreated.
Common Causes of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
- Lack of Space: The most common cause is insufficient room in the jaw to accommodate the additional teeth.
- Growth Angle: Wisdom teeth can grow sideways, backward, or at an awkward angle.
- Genetics: Some people are more prone to impaction due to hereditary factors.
Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Not all impacted wisdom teeth cause symptoms, but when they do, you may experience:
- Pain or swelling in the back of your mouth
- Tender, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Headaches
If you notice these symptoms, scheduling an evaluation with Goliad Dental Care is essential.
Why Impacted Wisdom Teeth Are a Concern
Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to a range of oral health issues, including:
- Crowding: They may push against neighboring teeth, causing misalignment.
- Infections: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to gum infections or abscesses.
- Tooth Decay: It’s harder to clean impacted teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
- Cyst Formation: In rare cases, a sac around the impacted tooth can fill with fluid and form a cyst, potentially damaging the jawbone or nearby teeth.
Diagnosis and Treatment
At Goliad Dental Care, we diagnose impacted wisdom teeth through a thorough oral examination and dental X-rays to assess their position and potential impact on oral health.
Treatment Options:
- Monitoring: If your impacted wisdom teeth aren’t causing symptoms, we may recommend regular monitoring.
- Extraction: In most cases, removal is the best option to prevent or address complications. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure performed with precision and care to minimize discomfort.
Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Recovery typically takes a few days, and our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including:
- Resting and avoiding strenuous activity
- Using ice packs to reduce swelling
- Eating soft foods and staying hydrated
- Following prescribed pain management as needed
Schedule Your Wisdom Tooth Evaluation
While you can’t prevent wisdom tooth impaction, regular dental checkups allow us to monitor their growth and intervene early if necessary. Good oral hygiene and routine X-rays help us stay ahead of potential issues.
If you suspect you have impacted wisdom teeth or are experiencing symptoms, Goliad Dental Care is here to help. Our experienced team will evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of action to protect your oral health.
Don’t let impacted wisdom teeth cause unnecessary discomfort—schedule your appointment with Goliad Dental Care today!