When we think of growing pains, we usually think of early childhood, but many of us face another kind of growing pain well into our late teens and even twenties: the emergence of our wisdom teeth. These molars, typically the last teeth to surface in our mouths, have a reputation for causing discomfort and sometimes even severe pain.
Anatomy of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, technically known as third molars, are the last set of molars located at the back of our mouths. By the time they begin to emerge, typically between ages 16 and 18, most of our other teeth have settled into place. This creates a crowded environment that can lead to various complications.
The jawbones of modern humans are somewhat smaller than those of our ancestors because our diets are different, but it’s taking time for humanity to develop fewer teeth to fit easily into these smaller jaws. Although fewer people develop wisdom teeth, many people still have them.
The smaller amount of space in our modern jaws means we can struggle to accommodate the full set of 32 teeth, including the wisdom teeth. Because of this limited space, wisdom teeth often become impacted, meaning they do not emerge or grow in a standard way.
Reasons for Wisdom Teeth Pain
Tooth Impaction
Impaction occurs when there isn’t enough space for the wisdom teeth to emerge or grow properly. This can cause the tooth to grow at an angle, pressing against the second molar, or remain trapped within the jawbone or gums. The pressure and improper positioning can lead to significant discomfort.
Inflammation and Swelling
When a wisdom tooth starts to emerge, the surrounding gum can become sore and swollen. In some cases, this inflammation can cause pain in the surrounding teeth or the jaw.
Infection
A partially emerged wisdom tooth creates an opening in the gum, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to infections, such as pericoronitis, where the gum tissue surrounding the emerging wisdom tooth becomes infected, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes even pus.
Cysts
On rare occasions, a sac next to the wisdom tooth becomes filled with fluid, forming a cyst. This cyst can damage the jawbone, teeth, and nerves. While not always painful immediately, if untreated, it can lead to more severe complications and pain.
Wisdom Teeth Pain Prevention and Intervention
Preventive measures and early interventions are crucial when dealing with wisdom teeth. Regular dental check-ups allow us to monitor the growth and positioning of these molars. With the help of dental X-rays, we can assess whether they are likely to become impacted or cause other complications.
If the pain becomes persistent or severe, it might be time to consider extraction. While the thought of extraction might be unsettling for some, it is a standard procedure that can prevent further complications and provide long-term relief.
Pain Management
In many cases, over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help manage mild pain and swelling. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash, can help prevent infections.
Remember, while pain is a clear indicator that something might be amiss, regular dental check-ups are crucial even if you’re not experiencing discomfort. By keeping a close eye on the growth and position of your wisdom teeth, we can help ensure your oral health remains on track.
Untreated Wisdom Teeth: Potential Long-Term Complications
The pain associated with wisdom teeth isn’t just a fleeting discomfort; if not addressed, it can lead to more serious dental problems down the line.
Tooth Decay
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are harder to clean due to their location at the back of the mouth. This makes them more susceptible to tooth decay, especially if food gets trapped around the tooth.
Gum Disease
The difficulty in cleaning these teeth and the gum tissue around them can also result in gingivitis, which is the initial stage of gum disease. If left unchecked, it can progress to a more severe form known as periodontitis, which can affect the bone supporting the teeth.
Alignment Issues
A wisdom tooth that doesn’t have enough room to grow properly can push adjacent teeth out of position. Over time, this pressure can lead to crowding or misalignment of teeth, which might require orthodontic treatment to correct.
When to Seek Dental Care
Pain is almost always a sign that you should see an orthodontist. However, there are other symptoms associated with wisdom teeth that might warrant a visit, even if you’re not noticing a lot of pain.
Prolonged Jaw Stiffness and Tenderness
While some tenderness is expected when wisdom teeth are emerging, prolonged stiffness or tenderness in the jaw could indicate a problem.
Unpleasant Taste or Odor
An unpleasant taste in the mouth or bad breath can be signs of an infection or decay related to a wisdom tooth.
Swelling
Any swelling in the jaw or around the mouth should be a cause for concern and requires a dental evaluation.
Wisdom Teeth Concerns and Common Misconceptions
One common misconception is that everyone needs to have these teeth removed. While it’s true that many individuals undergo extraction, it’s not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Some people’s wisdom teeth grow in without causing any problems at all.
Another misconception is that the removal procedure is extremely painful. While there can be some discomfort associated with any tooth removal procedure, modern techniques and anesthetics make the process virtually pain-free. Post-operative pain is very manageable with over-the-counter painkillers.
Finally, there’s the fear of complications from the removal procedure. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, but they’re minimal. The most common side effects are just a bit of swelling and discomfort, which usually subside in a few days and are managed with painkillers. More severe complications are very rare, and when patients follow post-operative care instructions, the risk is further minimized.
Regular Dental Check-Ups: Your First Line of Defense
These routine visits allow us to monitor not just your wisdom teeth, but your overall oral health. Early detection of potential issues, whether they relate to your wisdom teeth or not, is the key to simpler treatments and better outcomes.
We understand that dental visits can bring about anxiety for some. We’re here to answer any questions and address any concerns. Knowledge is empowering, and the more you know about what’s happening inside your mouth, the better equipped you are to make decisions about your oral health.
Talk to Cornerstone Dental About Caring for Your Wisdom Teeth
The wisdom tooth, with its late arrival and penchant for causing discomfort, worries many people. Not everyone will experience complications with their wisdom teeth, but if you do, understanding the reasons behind the pain and being proactive in seeking dental care can make all the difference.
In any case, whether you need wisdom tooth removal or not, routine dental visits are the key. We can monitor the status of your teeth, ensuring that they’re not only growing correctly but also that they’re not causing harm to surrounding teeth or tissues.
Do You Need To Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed In The Martinsburg Area?
If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed you owe it to yourself to speak with an experienced dentist as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our Martinsburg, West Virginia dental office directly at 304.267.6059 to schedule your appointment. We provide a wide range of general dentistry care as well as more involved dentistry services for patients throughout the Martinsburg area and look forward to you joining the Cornerstone Dental family.
