Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, appear between the ages of seventeen and twenty-five. They are located at the back of your mouth and sometimes they can be problematic. When they emerge, they can get trapped in your gums or jawbone, an issue referred to as impaction, which can result in excruciating pain, inflammation, and infection. However, not every wisdom tooth needs to be removed.
So, when is it essential to go to a dentist for wisdom teeth removal in Macon, GA?
When the Wisdom Tooth Is Impacted
When your wisdom teeth are fully or partially impacted, they can cause damage to adjacent teeth, cysts, tumors, and infections. Sometimes, you’ll experience pain, swelling, stiffness, and jaw tenderness. In such a case, you should see a dentist for an oral exam. The dentist in Macon might recommend an X-ray, which will reveal the position of the wisdom tooth and signal the need for removal.
Infection or Gum Disease
Due to the hard-to-reach location of wisdom teeth, it’s common to have gum disease, which affects the gum tissues surrounding the tooth. The condition can cause gum inflammation, which is a sign of infection. In severe cases, you might have bad breath, discharge, or exudate. An infection in teeth can cause gum swelling, pain, and discomfort. You should see a dentist immediately for treatment of gum disease, teeth cleaning, or extraction of the wisdom tooth.
Crowding Teeth
If you have enough space in your jaw, your wisdom teeth will erupt normally. However, if you have insufficient space, the growing wisdom teeth will push other teeth, causing them to become crooked or misaligned. The situation can also lead to discomfort, impaction, or infection. If you have crowding teeth, you should see a dentist to discuss your options for wisdom teeth removal in Macon, GA.
