If your wisdom tooth is causing you pain, you don’t have to live with it. The best dentist in Morton, IL, can help you fix your problem. We’ve rounded up the signs that tell you it’s time to get that third molar removed.
How to Tell If You Need a Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Not Enough Space in Your Jawbone for Your Wisdom Tooth
Since your wisdom tooth can help you chew and masticate food, you won’t have to do anything about it if it’s not causing your issues. However, if you notice that your jaw lacks space for your third molar to grow in, you may have to prepare for a wisdom tooth extraction. Otherwise, it will start growing in the wrong direction and even cause your other teeth to shift from their correct positions.
Jaw Pain and Discomfort
The way your teeth grow determines the structural integrity of your jaw. If your wisdom tooth is impacted, it grows in blocked or misaligned ways, putting more pressure on the other teeth.
The impaction will take its toll on the strength, health, and integrity of your jawbone. As a result, you’ll experience jaw pain, discomfort, and stiffness. The pain becomes even more intense when the emerging wisdom tooth presses on the nerves and bone.
Bad Breath
If your breath smells, even if you’re doing your best with your daily oral hygiene routine, you may have an impacted wisdom tooth. Since it usually erupts in the back of the mouth, cleaning it can be extremely challenging. The problem worsens if you smoke and consume a lot of sugar.
Signs of Infection
Whether your impacted wisdom tooth is fully or partially erupted, it won’t be easy to clean. For this reason, this hard-to-reach area becomes vulnerable to tooth decay and gum infection.
Besides having frequent sore throats and swollen lymph nodes, the gum tissue surrounding the area becomes red, swollen, and tender. In some cases, pus may even drain in your mouth due to infection. Before this discomfort begins to interfere with your daily activities, you’ll want to go to the dentist right away.
Sinus Problems
Your sinuses sit close to your upper set of teeth. For this reason, a wisdom tooth that’s about to erupt in your top jaw can potentially affect your sinuses. It may cause issues as it rubs or pushes against your sinuses.
Although sinus problems can result from several causes, impacted wisdom teeth are common culprits. A wisdom tooth extraction procedure can help ease sinus congestion, pressure, and headaches.
Cyst Growth
Do you see tiny sacs of liquid growing around your impacted wisdom tooth? These cysts can even cause pain or discomfort in your mouth. Don’t wait until it causes damage to your teeth and jaw before you schedule an appointment with your dentist. The last thing you want is for these cysts to grow into benign tumors.
Dental Misalignment
When your jawbone doesn’t have enough room for a wisdom tooth, your third molar pushes your other teeth together, causing them to become crooked. Thankfully, your dentist can look at X-rays and predict whether your wisdom tooth will overcrowd your other teeth. They may also recommend orthodontic treatment if it gets to a point where your other teeth have already become crooked.
Looking for the Best Dentist in Morton, IL?
At Morton Dental Center, we offer high-quality dental care with a small-town touch. If you’re ready to enjoy a pleasant experience at the dentist, call us today to make an appointment.
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