According to the American Dental Association® website Mouth Healthy™, wisdom teeth typically start to appear between the ages of 17 and 21. For some people, this third set of molars can come in with no problem. But for many others, they can become impacted, causing severe pain and a variety of dental health problems. How can you tell if your wisdom teeth are causing problems or if it’s just a standard toothache? Here are a few signs that you should see a dentist about whether to have your wisdom teeth removed.

5 Reasons You Might Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

1. Pain Behind Your Molars  

If you feel a persistent or sharp pain in the back of your mouth behind your molars, it is likely connected to an impacted or infected wisdom tooth. In some cases, the pain may radiate through the jaw or cause headaches. However, if the pain is localized near another tooth, it may just be a regular toothache that requires a dentist’s attention.

2.  Swollen Gums

When impaction or infection occurs, surrounding tissues can swell as your immune system tries to fight the problem. Jaw swelling is common, but if your gums — particularly near your molars — are swollen, red, or bleeding, it may be time to have your wisdom teeth removed.  

3. Trouble Opening Your Mouth  

Impacted wisdom teeth can get in the way of your jaw’s ability to open and close. While this is sometimes a sign of other dental problems, you may need to see a dentist about your wisdom teeth if you find that it’s difficult to open your mouth when chewing, speaking, or yawning.

4. Visible Infection

Even with proper oral hygiene, wisdom teeth can become infected if they remain impacted for too long. Some common signs of infection include cysts around the tooth, discoloration, and bad breath.

5. Crowding

When there is not enough room in the mouth for wisdom teeth, they can push against other teeth while growing in. As they continue to emerge, the pressure can force other teeth to shift—causing your smile to become misaligned or crowded.

Whether you think your symptoms are due to impacted wisdom teeth or a run-of-the-mill cavity, it’s important to share your symptoms with a trusted family dentist. Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS serves patients in the Sacramento, CA, area and has the experience and tools necessary to pinpoint wisdom teeth problems and other oral infections. If necessary, this dentist will guide you through the extraction process to help protect your smile and prevent further pain. To learn more about this provider’s cosmetic and general dentistry services, visit the clinic online. You can also call (916) 689-1100 to schedule a convenient appointment.