Symptoms Which Could Be Pointing to The Need for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
We all have wisdom teeth, at least for a while. While some individuals never have any issues with their wisdom teeth, many others eventually need to have them extracted. This typically occurs in our teenage years but can also occur later. Impaction, infection, and overcrowding are just a few reasons wisdom tooth extraction is needed. For those in Greenville, South Carolina, seeking dental extraction, Drs. John Palmer, Debra Adams, and Ashley Hurley welcome you to Palmer Distinctive Dentistry. The team at Palmer Distinctive Dentistry is here to ensure that your oral health is protected at every stage of the extraction process.
Here are some signs that you may need your wisdom teeth extracted.
Intense Pain
As with any other medical condition, pain and discomfort (especially if it is intense) are telltale signs that something is wrong. This is especially true when this pain does not subside following a good brush and floss or after you have taken some form of painkiller. There are several reasons you may be experiencing dental pain, so some investigations will need to be done by your local dentist. However, if the pain is coming from the back of your mouth and you still have your wisdom teeth, it could be due to an infection or impaction of these teeth. It may feel like something is pushing on your jaw or gums. It is best to visit your dentist for X-rays and a checkup if this pain persists to determine if it is your wisdom teeth or some other issue.
Swollen Gums
Swollen gums are another symptom of painful wisdom teeth becoming an issue. Think about how an infant or toddler can become irritable when teeth are trying to break through. This same discomfort or pain can occur if your wisdom teeth come through and irritate your gums. The biggest issue with wisdom teeth is that they are often not growing in the correct alignment. Therefore they will not break through the gums correctly. What results is pain, discomfort, and swollen gums. Having oral surgery to remove these teeth will relieve the pressure on your gums and any pain associated with this particular issue.
Crowding
One of the most common and biggest issues with wisdom teeth trying to break through is that they can be larger than normal teeth, and our mouths just do not have enough space left to accommodate these wisdom teeth. When left too long, these teeth will still find a way to break through, but they may also shift your existing teeth. Teeth crowding is another common symptom of needing a wisdom tooth extraction. When teeth take up too much space and exert excessive pressure on other teeth, causing them to shift, you may end up with alignment issues. The great news is that when your wisdom teeth are extracted, your other teeth should have the space needed to be straight and in their proper positions.
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When To Keep Your Wisdom Teeth
There are times when, believe it or not, that it is ok to keep your wisdom teeth. If you are not experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, and your wisdom teeth are coming through without any issues, then it is best for you to keep your wisdom teeth! Keeping as many of your healthy teeth as possible is always the best way to go.
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It can be unbearable living in pain brought about by dental issues. Dental pain can disrupt your everyday life and make it difficult to enjoy just about anything. Having your wisdom teeth extracted when necessary can help relieve this pain if it is the source of the pain. In some cases of wisdom teeth extractions, a referral to an oral surgeon may be necessary.
If you are seeking a tooth extraction, please schedule an appointment at Palmer Distinctive Dentistry today by calling (864) 879-6494.