Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars you do not really need for chewing food or speech issues. For some people, these teeth start creating problems when they erupt and impact the alignment of their teeth. This is why it is important to take them out before this happens.
People who do not have to deal with their wisdom teeth are lucky. However, if you experience excruciating pain that keeps coming back, you may need to pull one or both teeth out. Visit a Columbia dentist office to understand your options.
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Signs you need your wisdom teeth removed
- There is no more room for your wisdom tooth.
According to dentists, you do not need to do anything about your wisdom tooth unless it causes problems. They can simply sit at the back of your mouth and help you masticate food. However, if you notice that your mouth does not have enough space for another tooth and is causing problems, you might need a tooth removal. This condition is known as impacted teeth, where they start growing in weird positions.
- Incorrect growth.
When wisdom teeth grow in a crooked manner, they cannot be straightened with braces. When this happens, your mouth becomes overcrowded, and there is no procedure that can fix this. Then, your only option is to get this tooth removed. In some cases, people have to pull out all of their wisdom teeth and sometimes just one. Consult your dentist to determine the best course of action for your situation.
- Inflamed gums.
When your wisdom teeth grow, it erupts from inside your gums. Therefore, this can cause the nearby gum area to become inflamed, swollen, and tender. Your gums at the back of your mouth may appear flapped, swollen and red and cause pain. This condition can make it very difficult to chew your food properly and clean your teeth.
- Pain in your jaw.
The health and structure of your jaw depend on your teeth growing properly, which also includes your wisdom teeth. When your wisdom teeth start growing abnormally and pushing around other teeth to make space for themselves, your jaw gets significantly affected. Therefore, if you experience some pain in your jaw, you should go to the doctor immediately.
Visiting the dentist once in six months for a routine check-up and getting x-rays of your jawbone can also help detect the problem at its early stages. This prevents the problem from advancing, and you can start treatment before the pain even begins.
