Wisdom teeth are an additional set of molars that typically emerge in the late teenage years or early adulthood. In an ideal situation, they come in without any issues. However, this is uncommon, as many people don't have enough room in their mouths to accommodate these extra teeth. As a result, problems such as overcrowding, infection, or impaction can occur, often requiring dental intervention.
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What Are Wisdom Teeth?

An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when the tooth is unable to fully emerge or grow in properly. This can happen for several reasons, such as lack of space in the jaw or being blocked by another tooth.

Common signs and symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth include:

  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Pain or tenderness in the gums or jaw
  • Headaches or jaw aches
  • Swollen or bleeding gums
  • Difficulty opening the mouth or limited jaw movement
Removing impacted wisdom teeth is often necessary to prevent more serious problems, such as persistent pain, infections, or damage to surrounding teeth. Left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to long-term oral health complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

In some rare cases, wisdom teeth erupt normally and don’t cause any problems—these individuals may not need removal. However, for most people, there isn’t enough space in the jaw to allow proper eruption. This often leads to impaction or difficulty cleaning the teeth, which can result in complications like decay or gum disease.

It’s recommended that all young adults have their wisdom teeth evaluated by an oral or maxillofacial surgeon. During the consultation, a thorough exam and X-rays can help identify impaction, damage to nearby teeth, signs of infection, or potential issues with how the wisdom teeth are developing.

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