Wisdom Teeth

Posted by Author Central on May 24th, 2023

Why Wisdom Teeth Hurt & When To Have Them Removed

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some individuals may never experience any issues with their wisdom teeth, others may face complications that necessitate removal. Identifying the signs that you might require wisdom teeth removal is essential for maintaining your oral health and preventing potential problems. Our skilled dental team at Happy Smiles Dentist is here to guide you through this process.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in a person’s mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. They are the last teeth to develop and are located at the very back of the upper and lower jaws. While some individuals may have all four wisdom teeth, others may have fewer, or even none at all. The eruption of wisdom teeth can sometimes cause issues, such as impaction, overcrowding, or infection, which may necessitate their removal to maintain optimal oral health. In cases where wisdom teeth emerge without complications, they can function as normal molars, assisting in chewing and grinding food.

Why Wisdom Teeth Hurt – Understanding The Discomfort

Understanding the discomfort associated with emerging wisdom teeth is crucial for addressing any potential oral health concerns.

Why do wisdom teeth hurt? The pain experienced during the emergence of wisdom teeth can often be because of the pressure exerted on the surrounding teeth and jawbone.

As wisdom teeth begin to erupt, they can push against adjacent teeth, causing them to move and shift. This movement may lead to crowding or misalignment in the mouth, resulting in discomfort in the jaw. Symptoms that could arise from this displacement include pain, swelling, and stiffness, which may make it challenging to open the jaw and even affect one’s ability to breathe comfortably.

In some cases, wisdom teeth may only partially emerge, leaving a flap of gum tissue covering the tooth. This flap can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to gum infections, further exacerbating the pain and swelling. Impacted wisdom teeth, where the tooth does not have enough space to emerge correctly, can also be a source of discomfort. Impacted teeth may grow at an angle, pressing against other teeth, and potentially causing damage to the surrounding dental structures.

Another factor contributing to the pain associated with wisdom teeth is the inflammation that often accompanies their eruption. The body’s natural immune response can cause the area around the emerging tooth to become inflamed, resulting in redness, tenderness, and swelling. This inflammation can put additional pressure on the nerves in the jaw, exacerbating the pain experienced by the individual.

In some instances, individuals may develop cysts or tumours around impacted wisdom teeth, which can lead to further complications and heightened discomfort. If left untreated, these issues can cause damage to the jawbone and other teeth, making prompt intervention essential.

To alleviate the pain associated with wisdom teeth, it is essential to consult with a dental professional, such as those at Happy Smiles Dentist Hornsby, who can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment options. Solutions may include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, or, in some cases, wisdom teeth extraction to prevent further complications and ensure optimal oral health.

Why Wisdom Teeth Hurt And The Signs You May Need The Removed

When your wisdom teeth align properly and gum tissue is healthy, wisdom teeth do not have to be removed. This is not always the case however.

The removal of wisdom teeth is necessary when your wisdom teeth are prevented from properly erupting within the mouth. They may grow sideways, partially emerge from the gum and even remain trapped (impacted) beneath the gum and bone. Impacted teeth may take many positions in the bone as they attempt to find a pathway that will allow them to erupt successfully.

Signs that you may need your wisdom teeth removed include:

Pain and Discomfort

One of the most common signs that your wisdom teeth may need removal is persistent pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth. This pain may intensify when biting, chewing, or opening your mouth wide.

Swelling and Inflammation

Swelling and inflammation around the area where the wisdom teeth are emerging can also indicate that removal may be necessary. This may be accompanied by redness, tenderness, or even infection.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge properly, they can become impacted. Impacted teeth may grow at an angle, causing them to press against other teeth, which can lead to pain and damage.

Overcrowding

In some cases, the growth of wisdom teeth can lead to overcrowding, causing misalignment or shifting of surrounding teeth. If this occurs, removal may be recommended to prevent further complications.