For many patients, by the time their wisdom teeth erupt, there is little space left and the result is impacted teeth and overcrowding. Because this can lead to further dental complications such as infections and dental decay, it is a good idea to remove problematic wisdom teeth, ideally before the problems present. Let’s take a look at wisdom tooth pain symptoms and when you might need assistance with a dental emergency.
What Are The Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth in the mouth to erupt, and they function as a third set of molars. Because advances in modern dentistry have meant that most people do not need them, and when they present with dental problems, it is a relatively simple process to remove them. But how do you know if your wisdom tooth is going to be problematic and how do you avoid a dental emergency?
Wisdom Tooth Pain Symptoms To Look Out For
Ideally, you should visit your dentist twice a year so he or she can be on the lookout for the start of any problems. Your gums will be felt for the eruption of your wisdom tooth, and when your dental practitioner thinks it is appropriate, he or she will take an x-ray of your teeth to see how the wisdom tooth is positioned in the gums.
This will give an indication of whether the wisdom tooth will be able to erupt without problems.
Signs of an infection of your wisdom tooth may include
- Swollen, red or inflamed gums at the back of your mouth, behind your molars
- Pain
- Pus
- Sore or swollen lymph nodes below the jaw
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- A fever
Can A Wisdom Tooth Infection Be Treated?
It is possible to treat a wisdom tooth infection in its earliest stages if your dentist thinks you should retain the wisdom tooth. Sometimes it is possible to clean the infection up or treat it with antibiotics. If the infection returns, or if there is evidence of dental decay or a threat to your molars, your dentist will recommend an extraction.
The Importance Of Early Treatment
It is often simpler and cheaper to remove wisdom teeth before they can further problems. If you wait until later when the roots are better formed, it can make removing them much more difficult. If they erupt they can cause damage to the adjacent teeth so it’s vital that you visit your dentist for regular check ups.
What If You Experience A Dental Emergency?
If you do develop an excruciating toothache in the middle of the night, you might find gentle rinsing with warm salt water is an effective way to relieve pain and swelling and to keep the area clean. Avoid smoking and contact your dentist for the soonest available appointment.
If you are concerned about wisdom tooth pain symptoms and want to find out about extraction it’s always best to speak to a professional first. Please contact us for an appointment: (02) 4210 9078.
