How Can You Tell If You Have Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Posted on 5/8/2023 by Evan
Wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 17 to 25. Unfortunately, things such as genetics can make wisdom teeth grow at odd angles. This may involve insufficient space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to erupt. Sometimes, the teeth can erupt towards the second molars or upwards but are trapped in the jaws. If not removed, impacted wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding, misalignments, tooth decay, and gum disease. In this case, it is best to understand the signs of tooth impaction, so you can seek treatment soon. Here is how to tell if you have impacted wisdom teeth.
Persistent Pain
Impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on the adjacent teeth, causing pain and discomfort. In addition, when there is limited space for the teeth to erupt, impacted teeth push the neighboring teeth, causing them to shift. This makes the jaws become stiff and sore, causing discomfort. You may also find it challenging to open your mouth.
Swollen and Bleeding Gums
Impacted wisdom teeth are hard to clean. Due to their positioning and direction of eruption, reaching them with a toothbrush can be challenging. With this, food particles and bacteria can accumulate between the teeth and gums, causing infection. After some time, your gums may become swollen and tender. They may also bleed when you brush or apply pressure.
Bad Breath
A bad breath may indicate an infected impaction. In most cases, there is a space between the second molar and the impacted tooth. Since the area is hard to clean, it becomes a perfect region for plaque buildup. If not removed, the harmful bacteria in the plaque will produce a bad breath or taste in the mouth. Do you experience any of the above symptoms? Contact us, and our dentists will determine whether the signs indicate tooth impaction or other oral issues.
Wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 17 to 25. Unfortunately, things such as genetics can make wisdom teeth grow at odd angles. This may involve insufficient space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to erupt. Sometimes, the teeth can erupt towards the second molars or upwards but are trapped in the jaws. If not removed, impacted wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding, misalignments, tooth decay, and gum disease. In this case, it is best to understand the signs of tooth impaction, so you can seek treatment soon. Here is how to tell if you have impacted wisdom teeth. 
