Dealing with Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Your Comprehensive Guide
Wisdom teeth, known as third molars, typically emerge between 17 and 25 years. While some people sail through this stage without issues, many face complications when these teeth become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to pain, infection, and many dental problems if not addressed. At Pearlmax Oral Surgery in San Diego, California, we specialize in diagnosing and treating impacted wisdom teeth, ensuring our patients receive the highest standard of care. This guide outlines the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for impacted wisdom teeth so you can take the next steps towards better oral health.
What Causes Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Several factors can lead to wisdom teeth becoming impacted. The most common cause is insufficient space in the jaw, preventing these teeth from emerging properly. Other factors include:
- Insufficient Jaw Space: The jaw may be too small to accommodate third molars.
- Crowding: Other teeth may block the path of the wisdom teeth, hindering proper eruption.
- Incorrect Eruption Angle: Wisdom teeth can emerge at awkward angles, impacting neighboring teeth.
- Gum Tissue Issues: Sometimes, gum tissue can cover the teeth, making it difficult for them to erupt fully.
Dr. German Trujillo utilizes X-rays to evaluate the positioning of your wisdom teeth and identify any potential issues.
Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can present a range of symptoms, which may differ from person to person. Here are some common signs to be aware of:
- Pain or Discomfort: You may experience pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, where the wisdom teeth are located.
- Swelling and Tenderness: The gums around the impacted teeth may become swollen and tender to the touch.
- Limited Mouth Opening: Difficulty in fully opening your mouth can occur due to the pressure and swelling from the impacted teeth.
- Bad Breath: An unpleasant taste in your mouth or persistent bad breath may indicate infection or decay associated with the impacted teeth.
- Earaches or Headaches: The pressure of the impacted teeth may cause ear discomfort or headaches.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a dental professional for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
How Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth Treated?
The primary treatment for impacted wisdom teeth is extraction. Even though these teeth are not necessary for maintaining good oral health, it is frequently required to have them extracted to avoid potentially more serious issues:
- Tooth decay
- Oral infections
- Gum disease
- Cysts or tumors
- Overcrowding of other teeth
- Damage to adjacent teeth
Extraction typically involves a surgical procedure where Dr. Trujillo makes incisions in the gum tissue and may remove some bone to access the impacted teeth. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort during treatment. After extraction, our team provides comprehensive post-operative care instructions to promote healing and alleviate discomfort.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with wisdom teeth issues, Pearlmax Oral Surgery is here to help. We proudly serve patients in San Diego and surrounding areas.
Don’t let impacted wisdom teeth disrupt your life any longer. Contact Dr. German Trujillo at (858) 434-7554 to schedule your consultation and explore your treatment options. Your journey to relief and a healthier smile starts here!
