Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge. While some people have no issues with them, others experience problems due to lack of space in the jaw. This can lead to impacted wisdom teeth, where the teeth don’t fully emerge or grow in the wrong direction, causing pain and complications.
What are impacted wisdom teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars that don’t have enough space to fully emerge or develop normally. Unlike normal wisdom teeth, which grow in properly and align with the rest of the teeth, impacted wisdom teeth can become trapped beneath the gums or grow at an angle. This can lead to pain, infections, and other dental issues.
Some impacted wisdom teeth remain completely hidden under the gum, while others partially erupt, making them difficult to clean and prone to decay and gum disease.
How common are impacted wisdom teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth are very common. Studies suggest that around 70-80% of people experience at least one impacted wisdom tooth in their lifetime. Due to evolutionary changes, modern human jaws are often too small to accommodate wisdom teeth, which increases the likelihood of impaction.
While some impacted wisdom teeth never cause problems, many people eventually need them removed to prevent complications.
When do wisdom teeth come in?
Wisdom teeth usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. However, their development varies — some people never get them, while others may have one, two, three, or all four. When they come in normally and align properly, they function like regular molars. But in many cases, there isn’t enough room for them to grow correctly, leading to impaction.
What is the purpose of wisdom teeth?
Originally, wisdom teeth were useful for our ancestors, who had larger jaws and a diet that included raw plants, meat, and nuts. Today, with smaller jaws and softer diets, these teeth are often unnecessary and can cause more harm than good. This is why many people opt to have them removed before they cause issues.
Impacted wisdom tooth symptoms
Not all impacted wisdom teeth cause symptoms, but when they do, they can be uncomfortable and even lead to serious dental problems. Some common impacted wisdom tooth symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness at the back of the mouth
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing
- Jaw pain or headaches
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw
- Infections or gum disease around the wisdom tooth
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to visit a dentist for an evaluation.
Why remove wisdom teeth?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be extracted. If they grow in properly, are easy to clean, and don’t cause pain, they can be left alone. However, wisdom teeth problems are common due to the limited space in modern jaws.
Dentists may recommend wisdom teeth removal in cases of:
- Impaction — If the tooth is trapped under the gum or growing at an angle, it can lead to pain, infections, and damage to other teeth.
- Crowding — Wisdom teeth can push against existing teeth, leading to misalignment.
- Infections — Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap bacteria, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Cysts or tumours — In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can develop cysts that may damage surrounding teeth and bone.
Wisdom tooth growing symptoms vs normal wisdom teeth
Some people experience mild discomfort when their wisdom teeth come in, which is normal. However, severe pain, swelling, or infection are signs of a problem. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor their growth and detect any issues early.
What happens during wisdom teeth removal?
If wisdom teeth removal is necessary, the procedure is typically straightforward. Here’s what to expect:
- Consultation and X-rays — The dentist will examine your teeth and determine whether removal is needed.
- Anaesthesia — Local, sedation, or general anaesthesia may be used depending on the complexity of the case.
- Extraction — The dentist will make a small incision in the gum if needed and remove the tooth.
- Stitches and Recovery — Some cases require stitches, while others don’t. Most people recover within a few days with proper aftercare.
Recovery tips after wisdom tooth extraction
After surgery, it’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery:
- Rest for at least 24 hours and avoid strenuous activities.
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
- Avoid drinking through straws to prevent dry socket.
- Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
- Rinse gently with salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean.
FAQs about wisdom teeth
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No, only those that cause problems or have the potential to do so require extraction.
My wisdom teeth hurt — do I need them removed?
Pain is a common sign of impaction or infection. A dentist can assess whether removal is necessary.
If my wisdom teeth hurt, does that mean they’re impacted?
Not necessarily, but pain is a common symptom of impacted wisdom teeth. Other possible causes include gum irritation, infections, or normal tooth eruption. A dentist can confirm whether impaction is the issue.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth removal?
Most people recover in about a week, though full healing can take a few weeks.
Can impacted wisdom teeth cause headaches?
Yes, pressure from impacted wisdom teeth can lead to headaches or jaw pain.
Can wisdom teeth grow back after extraction?
No, once removed, wisdom teeth do not grow back.
Is it normal for my other teeth to hurt after wisdom tooth extraction?
Some discomfort in nearby teeth is common due to pressure changes in the jaw.
Can impacted wisdom teeth cause sinus problems?
Yes, upper wisdom teeth can sometimes press against the sinuses, causing congestion or pain.
Worried about your wisdom teeth? Don’t wait! Book a check-up with our expert dentists in Lake Haven
Wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems — but when they do, it’s important to take action. If you’re experiencing pain or other symptoms, or if you’re unsure whether your wisdom teeth should be removed, book an appointment with our expert dentists in Lake Haven. Early detection and treatment can prevent more serious complications down the road, helping you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Our experienced dentists provide careful and precise wisdom teeth removal in Lake Haven. Get in touch with us online or call us to book an appointment.
Take control of your oral health at Advance Family Dental. Call (02) 4392 9911 and book today!
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