Understanding Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can be painful and disruptive. While pain is often the first warning sign, recognizing the condition early is important to prevent complications. Dentists can often identify impacted wisdom teeth before severe symptoms begin, helping you take action at the right time.
Common Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, you may experience:
- Pain in the back of the mouth – Discomfort near the molars or wisdom teeth that may worsen as they grow, sometimes pushing against nearby teeth.
- Swollen or bleeding gums – Gums may bulge, feel tender, or bleed when brushing or flossing.
- Jaw swelling or stiffness – In advanced cases, the jaw and surrounding tissue may become swollen, making it difficult or painful to open your mouth.
- Swollen lymph nodes – Infection caused by impacted teeth can lead to inflammation in the neck or shoulders.
- Frequent headaches – Misalignment from impacted wisdom teeth can affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), triggering headaches or facial pain.
Why Extraction Matters
Leaving impacted wisdom teeth untreated can lead to severe pain, infections, and long-term damage to neighboring teeth. Extraction helps protect your oral health and restores comfort.
Expert Care at Lakewood Dental Smile
At Lakewood Dental Smile, we provide safe and effective wisdom tooth removal to reduce pain and improve your oral health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with our dental team. We’ll examine your condition and recommend the best treatment, including extraction if necessary.
