Impacted wisdom teeth are a common dental issue that can cause pain, swelling, and long-term oral health problems if left untreated. Early recognition and treatment are key to preventing complications and maintaining a healthy smile. Dentists can often detect impacted wisdom teeth before severe symptoms appear, allowing patients to take timely action.
Common Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Recognizing the symptoms early is critical. Signs that your wisdom teeth may be impacted include:
- Pain in the back of the mouth: Discomfort near the molars or wisdom teeth can worsen as the teeth grow and push against neighboring 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: Infections from impacted teeth can trigger inflammation in the neck or shoulders.
- Frequent headaches: Misalignment from impacted teeth may affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to headaches or facial pain.
Early detection through a routine dental examination can help prevent these issues from escalating.
Why Extraction Matters
Leaving impacted wisdom teeth untreated can result in:
- Severe pain and discomfort
- Gum infections and abscesses
- Damage to neighboring teeth
- Increased risk of cysts or other oral complications
Extraction is often the most effective solution. Removing impacted wisdom teeth relieves pain, prevents infection, and protects the alignment of your other teeth.
The Extraction Process
Wisdom tooth removal is a common oral surgery procedure. Depending on the complexity, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend:
- Local anesthesia: Numbs the area for a comfortable procedure
- Sedation or general anesthesia: Used in more complex cases for patient comfort
- Surgical extraction: Necessary when the tooth is fully impacted or positioned irregularly
Post-operative care includes following instructions for pain management, oral hygiene, and diet to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
Expert Care at Lakewood Dental Smile
At Lakewood Dental Smile in Dearborn, Michigan, we provide expert evaluation and safe, effective wisdom tooth removal. Our team uses advanced techniques to minimize discomfort, promote healing, and protect your overall oral health.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with our dental experts. We’ll examine your teeth, discuss treatment options, and recommend extraction if necessary to restore comfort and prevent long-term problems.
