At first, it’s just a dull ache. Then, chewing becomes uncomfortable. Before you know it, you’re dealing with swollen gums and pressure in your jaw. If this sounds like your experience, wisdom teeth might be to blame. These late-blooming molars can grow in misaligned, impacted, or crowded—leading to pain and potential dental issues. How do you know when it’s time to have them removed?
Many people experience little to no issues with their wisdom teeth, but for others, these emerging molars can cause discomfort, swelling, and even serious dental complications. At Park Smiles NYC, we focus on personalized care to assess whether removal is necessary, ensuring your long-term oral health. With our experienced team and state-of-the-art technology, we make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Common Signs That Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed
Wisdom teeth, the third set of molars located at the back of your mouth, typically make their appearance during your late teens or early twenties. For some people, these teeth come in without causing any issues, while for others, they can lead to pain and inflammation.
If you are unsure whether your wisdom teeth need removal, here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
Pain in the Back of Your Mouth
Pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, where the wisdom teeth are located, is one of the clearest signs they might need to be removed. If the teeth come in at an angle or push against neighboring teeth, it can cause intense pressure and pain. This discomfort can range from mild soreness to sharp, radiating pain.
Swelling and Redness in the Gums
When wisdom teeth begin to emerge, the gums around them can become swollen and inflamed. This swelling is often a result of infection or irritation caused by the partially erupted tooth. If you notice your gums are red, tender, or bleeding when brushing or flossing, it could indicate an infection or impaction, which may require extraction.
Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or pressure, you may find it harder to open your mouth fully. This can be a result of swelling in the gums or jaw due to impacted wisdom teeth. Difficulty chewing or speaking can also be a symptom of impacted or infected wisdom teeth.
Crowding or Shifting of Other Teeth
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to emerge properly, they can push against your other teeth. This pressure can cause your teeth to shift, leading to crowding or misalignment, particularly if you have had braces or dental work in the past. If you notice your teeth becoming crooked or your bite feeling off, your wisdom teeth may be the culprit.
Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
If your wisdom teeth are partially erupted, they can create pockets where food particles and bacteria can become trapped. This can lead to bad breath (halitosis) or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. These pockets can also increase your risk of gum disease or cavities, which is another reason to consider removing your wisdom teeth.
Headaches or Jaw Pain
Wisdom teeth that are impacted (trapped beneath the gum line or angled incorrectly) can cause referred pain in the jaw, head, or neck. You may notice frequent headaches or general discomfort in the jaw due to the pressure exerted by the teeth. This can indicate the wisdom teeth are causing tension or misalignment in the jaw.
When to See a Dentist for Concerns With Your Wisdom Teeth
While wisdom teeth may not always cause problems, the symptoms outlined above should not be ignored. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, misalignment, or other issues related to your wisdom teeth, it’s important to seek professional dental care. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination and may take X-rays to evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth. In some cases, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for further evaluation and to discuss your options for removal. Removing wisdom teeth early can prevent complications and help you maintain a healthy smile.
If your dentist determines your wisdom teeth need to be removed, they will discuss the best course of action. In many cases, wisdom teeth removal is an outpatient procedure that can be done under local anesthesia or sedation. The procedure typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth need to be removed and how impacted they are.
After the procedure, you can expect some swelling and discomfort, which your dentist can manage with pain medications. Most patients recover within a few days, although full recovery can take a week or more, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
Why Choose Park Smiles NYC for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Dealing with wisdom tooth pain can be frustrating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Park Smiles NYC, we provide expert evaluation and removal of wisdom teeth, focusing on comfort and precision. Whether your wisdom teeth are causing pain, crowding, or risk of infection, we ensure a smooth experience with state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate team dedicated to your care.
Our approach prioritizes your well-being with a personalized treatment plan, sedation options for a stress-free procedure, and a commitment to gentle, efficient recovery. Trust our experienced dental professionals to help you maintain your healthiest smile. Schedule your consultation today by calling (212) 988-6724 or visiting our contact form.
