Wisdom teeth are often a stage in our growth. While they can grow unhindered, they are also responsible for numerous oral problems. This article guides you to recognize the symptoms of a problem wisdom tooth, understand the associated risks, and know when to see a dentist or dental hygienist.
What is a wisdom tooth?
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, generally appear between the ages of 17 and 25. If they find their place naturally for some, a lack of space in the jaw or a bad orientation can cause complications. For others, they remain included (not released) without causing problems.
What are the symptoms of a problem wisdom tooth?
While some wisdom teeth grow painlessly, others can cause noticeable symptoms:
- Localized pain : Feeling of pressure or acute pain in the back of the jaw, sometimes exacerbated during chewing.
- Inflammation and redness : The gums around the tooth become tender, red, and swollen.
- Headaches or radiating pain : Pressure on other teeth or the jaw can cause facial pain and even headaches.
- Bad breath : Result of an accumulation of food debris around the tooth.
If these symptoms persist or intensify, it is crucial to seek professional advice.
Do you always have to remove wisdom teeth?
The extraction of wisdom teeth is not systematic. Here are the criteria for evaluating whether extraction is necessary:
Recommended extraction :
- Recurrent pain or frequent infections.
- Tooth included or incorrectly positioned, creating a risk of caries or cysts.
- Pressure on adjacent teeth, resulting in misalignment.
No extraction required :
- Teeth completely out, well aligned and painless.
- Absence of infection or problems in the x-rays.
- You can brush them effectively and keep them clean.
A regular check-up and panoramic x-rays help determine the best course of action.
85% of adults need to extract at least one wisdom tooth in their lifetime.
What are the risks if a wisdom tooth is left untreated?
Ignoring problem wisdom teeth can lead to complications:
- Repeated infections : A partially pulled tooth promotes the accumulation of bacteria.
- Caries : The proximity to the other molars makes cleaning difficult.
- Benign cysts or tumours : An included tooth can cause damage to the jaw.
- Dental displacement : Pressure on adjacent teeth can interfere with their alignment.
What happens during a consultation?
During your appointment, the dentist will perform:
- A clinical examination : It checks the position of the teeth and the condition of the gums.
- A panoramic x-ray : It detects the teeth involved, the orientation of the roots and possible bone lesions.
- A personalized diagnosis : The dentist offers a suitable solution, whether it is an extraction or a simple monitoring.
Wisdom teeth are not necessarily a problem, but they do require special care. Recognizing symptoms early, seeing a dentist or dental hygienist regularly, and following professional advice can help avoid complications. When in doubt, an accurate diagnosis is the key to maintaining your oral health.
If this article has helped you, feel free to share it with your loved ones to make them aware of the importance of keeping an eye on their wisdom teeth.
