Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to come in, usually in the late teens or early twenties. While some people have no trouble with them, many do. That’s because the human mouth is often too small to fit these final teeth. When there is not enough room, wisdom teeth can grow in at the wrong angle, become trapped under the gums, or press against nearby teeth. This can lead to pain and other oral health problems. At Karen E. Williamson, DDS, PA, we have the tools and technology to determine if your wisdom teeth need to go.
Warning Signs of Wisdom Teeth Problems
Swelling, jaw pain, difficulty opening your mouth, bad breath, gum tenderness, and persistent headaches are common warning signs indicating potential trouble with impacted wisdom teeth
One of the first warning signs of wisdom teeth trouble is pain in the back of the mouth. You may also notice swollen gums, jaw soreness, trouble opening your mouth, or tenderness when chewing. Some people develop bad breath or a bad taste that does not go away, which can point to infection around a partially erupted wisdom tooth. Headaches, ear pain, and pressure in the jaw can also be linked to impacted wisdom teeth.
Impacted wisdom teeth are teeth that do not fully emerge through the gums. They may stay buried in the jawbone or come in only partway. This creates a space where bacteria and food can collect, raising the risk of infection. In many cases, impacted wisdom teeth are hard to clean, even with good brushing and flossing habits.
Complications of Impacted Wisdom Teeth and the Importance of Timely Removal
If impacted wisdom teeth are not removed when needed, several complications can develop. One common issue is crowding. A wisdom tooth may push against the tooth in front of it, which can affect alignment and create pressure in the mouth. Another concern is gum infection. When a tooth partially breaks through the gums, the area can become inflamed and painful. This condition can make eating and speaking uncomfortable.
Cavities are another risk. Since wisdom teeth are located so far back, they are difficult to reach and keep clean. This makes decay more likely, both in the wisdom teeth and in nearby molars. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can also damage neighboring teeth by pressing against their roots. Cysts may form around an impacted tooth as well. Though less common, these cysts can harm bone and surrounding tissue if left untreated.
Wisdom teeth removal is probably the most common and well-known type of oral surgery for a reason. Removing problem wisdom teeth can help prevent pain, infection, damage to other teeth, and more serious complications later on. In many cases, treatment is simpler before the roots fully develop and before problems become severe.
Why Wisdom Teeth Removal Matters
Karen E. Williamson, DDS, PA, has the experience and training to help patients make informed decisions about wisdom teeth care. Dr. Williamson opened her private general dentistry practice in Rockwall in 1993 and has provided comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry ever since. She proudly serves patients in Rockwall, Royse City, and Fate.
Expert Care and Personalized Wisdom Teeth Solutions with Dr. Williamson
If you are concerned about your wisdom teeth, contact Dr. Williamson so she can carefully evaluate your unique situation. She takes a personalized approach, examining the position of your teeth, your symptoms, and your overall oral health to determine whether extraction is necessary. When removal is the best choice, she is qualified and experienced in providing comfortable wisdom tooth extractions with patient-centered care.
Wisdom teeth problems should not be ignored. Early evaluation can help protect your smile and prevent bigger issues down the road.
Contact Karen E Williamson D.D.S., P.A:
469-402-0024
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
560 W Ralph Hall Pkwy, Ste 104, Rockwall, TX
Rockwall, Texas
75032
