Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom Teeth 

The third molars are the final molars to erupt in the back of the mouth, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. They are called “wisdom” teeth because they usually appear during a person’s late teens or early twenties, a time when people are regarded as being mature enough to make good decisions. There is usually no need to remove healthy wisdom teeth. However, wisdom teeth can cause issues and complications and can also become impacted. In such cases, they need to be extracted.

Impacted wisdom teeth need to be removed by an oral surgeon to avoid oral health problems, such as infections. Often, an impacted wisdom tooth will be trapped under the gum line by other teeth and cause swelling and pain. 

Impacted wisdom teeth are extracted by our dentists after using local anesthesia to numb the area. Patients can also choose deeper forms of anesthesia or sedation to make the procedure more comfortable.

What Are the Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Symptoms may include pain, swelling, gum tenderness, or jaw stiffness. The gum tissue around an impacted wisdom tooth is often red in color. Patients also may experience headaches or a bad taste in the mouth. 

Most patients experience discomfort in the back of their mouths. However, some may notice no symptoms at all. This is why regular appointments with your dentist are important.

What Are the Causes of Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

An impacted wisdom tooth never fully erupts through the gums and can be the result of several factors, including genetics or abnormal positioning of the teeth. Other causes include orthodontic treatments, tumors or cysts which restrict the eruption of the teeth, having an extra tooth or fused tooth bud, or facial trauma such as a fall.

Can Impacted Wisdom Teeth Cause Damage?

If your wisdom tooth is impacted, it can cause damage to your other teeth, including your molars and premolars. When an impacted tooth isn’t removed, it can still grow at an angle and push the other teeth out of alignment. This can cause crowding, which in turn can lead to tooth decay or gum disease.

Impacted wisdom teeth can also become infected and diseased. The bacteria that live in the mouth are a common breeding ground for infection, and an infection near the root of a tooth can spread throughout the mouth and cause serious complications.

If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or other issues with your wisdom teeth, talk to our dentist about treatment solutions as soon as possible. Our dentist can perform an oral exam to determine whether you have a misaligned wisdom tooth and what the best course of treatment might be. 

To find out more about the dental services we offer at our dental practice, Call this number (406) 727-4322 or request an appointment from our website to get a consultation. You can also visit us at 2511 Bobcat Way, Great Falls, MT 59405, or 515 14th Street West, Havre, MT 59501.