Wisdom Teeth Problems – Dallas, TX

Why Extra Teeth May Need Removing

Not everyone has to have their wisdom teeth taken out. If they’re able to erupt safely without affecting the rest of your mouth, wisdom teeth can last the rest of your life without causing any problems whatsoever. That said, wisdom tooth extractions are typically recommended because more often than not, wisdom teeth simply don’t have the room to erupt properly inside your mouth, leading to a number of wisdom teeth issues for our Dallas, TX patients. Read on to learn why having your wisdom teeth removed at Texas Wisdom Teeth and Dental Implants sooner rather than later could save you a lot of discomfort and inconvenience.

Animated smile with impacted wisdom tooth highlighted

Impaction

Animated close up of impacted wisdom tooth

Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the jawbone is not large enough to accommodate the eruption of the teeth. The third molars become malpositioned and remain "impacted" below the bone and gum tissue. The roots of the teeth continue to grow, and the teeth attempt to erupt, often creating pressure on the back of the second molars. This can cause dental crowding, cyst formation, or partial eruption, which results in wisdom tooth pain and infection (pericoronitis). Impacted third molars are usually recommended for removal because these problems can cause serious damage to the adjacent teeth and jawbone.

Dental Caries in Wisdom Teeth

X ray of smile with wisdom teeth highlighted red

Dental caries, or tooth decay, is the most common problem associated with erupted wisdom teeth, which have managed to erupt into the dental arch. These teeth are located out of easy reach for a toothbrush or floss. Because they are so difficult to keep clean, they often decay or contribute to decay of surrounding teeth. Removal of these third molars makes dental hygiene more manageable and aids in the maintenance of healthy gum tissue, reducing the risk of periodontal disease in the molar area.

Erupted wisdom teeth are at an increased risk of tooth decay. These teeth often harbor and support the growth of harmful bacteria which can lead to gum disease spreading to the other permanent teeth. Decayed wisdom teeth can become infected, abscessed, and extremely painful.

Symptoms of Wisdom
Teeth Problems

Woman with wisdom tooth problems holding cheek in pain

Patients with advanced disease of the wisdom teeth often complain of painful symptoms. Some symptoms associated with wisdom teeth problems include:

  • Wisdom Tooth Pain and Swelling
  • Toothache
  • Headache
  • Jaw Pain
  • Dental Crowding
  • Infection and Abscess