What are wisdom teeth and why do we need them removed? Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that usually come in during your late teens or early twenties. As these are the last of the adult teeth to come in, there often isn’t enough space for proper growth and alignment leading to abnormalities that can cause infection. Although wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems, here are some common signs that you might need dental surgery to have your wisdom teeth taken out.

*Pain

Pain is usually the first sign that your wisdom teeth are causing problems and will need to be pulled (extracted). The pain is typically a dull, aching pain in the jaw. Certain foods that require more chewing like meats and root vegetables can make the pain worse when eating, or you might even notice some while brushing your teeth or doing nothing at all.

*Impacted teeth

In some cases, the emerging wisdom tooth simply does not have enough space to erupt completely. As a result, the tooth may be placed at odd angles, creating pressure against other teeth. This is when the wisdom tooth is called impacted.

*Triggered Headaches

If your wisdom teeth do become trapped under the gums, this can lead to a build-up of pressure, which can trigger headaches. This can be a difficult sign to detect if you already suffer from frequent headaches. Always ensure you schedule regular check-ups with your dentist so they can monitor the condition of your oral health.

*Sinus issues

You may be able to tell if your wisdom teeth are coming through if you experience sinus pain, congestion and pressure, especially in the upper jaw area. The growth of teeth and development of its roots can push against the sinuses located right above and behind. Due to this pressure, it can cause headaches and sinus pain.

*Stiffness in jaw and swollen gums

As your wisdom teeth come in, they can push against your other teeth and make them move. This in turn can cause discomfort in your jaw, so it feels stiff, sore and difficult to open. This can also cause swelling of both the gum in the back of the mouth or on the side of the jaw. Partially erupted teeth can cause an infection known as pericoronitis, caused when particles of food and bacteria get trapped in the tissue and become inflamed.

There is no reason to live in pain. Wisdom teeth removal is a common and quick procedure. If you are experiencing any pain or are looking for an Edmonton dentist for wisdom teeth removal, our team is here to help! Visit www.illuminadadental.com to make an appointment today.