Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. Though some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, for others, they can be a problem. The reason is that when wisdom teeth start to show up, your mouth is often already crowded. Evolutionarily, humans once needed these extra molars to grind down tough foods, but with changes in diet and oral health, we no longer rely on them.
The lack of space can lead to wisdom teeth growing in at odd angles, getting stuck under the gums (impacted), or pushing against other teeth, causing pain and misalignment. When wisdom teeth don’t emerge correctly, they can lead to infections, cysts, gum disease, and even damage to neighboring teeth. In many cases, the best solution is extraction.
Wisdom teeth extraction is straightforward, safe, and often necessary for your oral health. It relieves pain and prevents future dental complications that could affect your general well-being. Even though the procedure is standard, complications can occur without expert execution.
Dr. Wenli Loo and Dr. Steve Deng at LivWell Dentistry in San Francisco and San Ramon, California, are skilled at carrying out every extraction with precision and care to minimize discomfort and complications. Here, they guide you through everything you need to know about wisdom tooth pain.
It doesn’t necessarily mean your wisdom tooth is infected if you feel pressure or mild pain in the back of your mouth; it could simply be that your wisdom teeth are growing in. You may experience some tenderness, swelling, or minor discomfort as these teeth break through the gums. This pain is normal and usually manageable.
However, if there isn’t enough space, wisdom teeth can become impacted or push against neighboring teeth, leading to complications. If your pain is mild and temporary, it may just be part of the natural growth process. However, if the pain worsens or if you notice persistent swelling, it’s time to book an appointment with us.
Though some wisdom teeth grow without complications, others can become infected if they are partially erupted or impacted. When a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully break through the gums, it can create pockets where bacteria can build up, leading to an infection.
Symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth include:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. An untreated wisdom tooth infection can spread to other parts of the body, leading to more severe health issues.
If your wisdom tooth needs to be removed, we first take X-rays to assess its position and determine the best extraction method. Before the procedure, you will be given local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the procedure.
If the tooth is fully erupted, we’ll perform a simple extraction. However, if it’s impacted, we may remove it in sections to minimize disrupting the surrounding gum and teeth. You may experience some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days. Using ice packs, eating soft foods, and taking any prescribed pain medication will help with the recovery.
Whether your wisdom tooth is growing normally, causing discomfort, or showing signs of infection, don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable. The best way to protect your oral health is to have a professional evaluate the situation and determine the best course of action.
If extraction is necessary, trust our team at LivWell Dentistry to provide the highest quality care, making the process as smooth and painless as possible. Schedule an appointment online, or call us at 415-477-3700 today.
