IMPACTED WISDOM TEETH

There are few oral health issues that can be as painful or disruptive to daily life as impacted wisdom teeth. Although the pain of impacted wisdom teeth is often enough to let you know that something is wrong, it is still important that you are able to identify the issue as early as possible.

Impacted wisdom teeth can be detected early using a panelipse x-ray and can usually be identified by Austin Cosmetic before they begin to cause debilitating pain. Any patient with wisdom teeth may be impacted will begin to notice a few symptoms that will worsen as the condition continues to develop.

Common Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Symptom #1: Throbbing pain in the back of the mouth

When wisdom teeth become impacted, it causes a great deal of pain, particularly as the condition worsens. You may notice pain radiating from the back of the mouth, particularly focused on the area around the wisdom teeth and other molars. This pain will get worse as the surrounding teeth begin to become affected.

Symptom #2: Swollen, tender and bleeding gums

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause serious gum issues. The gums may become swollen and tender to the touch. Additionally, gums may start to bleed when pressure is applied, making flossing and brushing both painful and difficult. If you notice your gums becoming swollen and tender, it may very well be impacted wisdom teeth. However, this could also be another form of gum disease. It is important that you see Dr. Patel immediately.

Symptom #3: Swelling around the jaw

Impacted wisdom teeth are often accompanied by swelling of both the gums and jaw. It can be subtle at first, but can worsen quickly to the point that it can become painful or difficult to open your mouth.

Symptom #4: Swollen glands in the shoulder and neck

Impacted wisdom teeth are often accompanied by swollen glands in the shoulder and neck. This combined with other symptoms is a tell tale sign that you might be experiencing impacted wisdom teeth and should speak to your doctor right away.

Symptom #5: Headaches

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause headaches of the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw and skull. This pain may radiate to other areas of the head and face as well.

Complications Caused by Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a range of further complications as the condition worsens. While wisdom teeth that are impacted can be enough to cause serious pain, the real threat comes from the complications that can arise as a result.

• Damage and realignment of adjacent teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can push on the teeth around them, causing infection or forcing the teeth out of place.

• Gum disease. Impacted wisdom teeth are prone to infection and decay. This can cause serious issues in the mouth. Because the back portion of the gums are difficult to clean, this can result in food and bacteria becoming trapped. This is a contributing factor that can lead to further gum disease and tooth decay.

• Cysts. Wisdom teeth grow within a sac that is located in the interior of the jaw. These sacs can fill with fluid when wisdom teeth become impacted. The fluid can lead to oral cysts that can damage nerves, cause pain and cause damage to adjacent teeth.

Are you experiencing some of the warning signs of wisdom teeth that may be impacted? You should contact Dr. Tejas Patel at Austin Cosmetic Dentistry right away. We will schedule a consult immediately and advise if wisdom teeth removal is needed.