Feeling something uncomfortable at the back of your mouth? Oral pain has such a wide variety of causes that we definitely can’t give you the answer in a blog post – you’ll need to see your dentist get to the root of the problem. But if you have wisdom teeth, you have a clue as to what the issue might be.
Wisdom teeth are some of the most commonly extracted because they can lead to a slew of dental problems, including impaction. Since they no longer have much use in chewing or biting, pulling these troublesome teeth is typically the best route.
Causes of Wisdom Tooth Impaction
Because the human jaw has become smaller over many centuries, but third molars still remain, it’s easy for those teeth to become impacted or blocked by the surrounding teeth or gums. Essentially, there’s just not enough room for them to erupt.
When teeth are impacted, they may grow:
- At an angle toward the second molar
- At an angle toward the back of the mouth
- At a right angle to other teeth
- Straight up and down (like other teeth) but trapped within the jawbone
These issues can lead to more significant dental problems, including damage to other teeth, cysts, heightened risk of cavities, and increased risk of gum disease. If you are having any such problem, it’s time to see your dentist. And Sterling Dental Clinic is here to help you with all your dental problems.
Early Warning Signs That You May Have an Impacted Tooth
Although it can be difficult to see the back of your mouth, if you’re experiencing oral pain or jaw problems, use a mirror to take a look and see if any of these other symptoms show up. The areas at the back of our mouths are prone to dental problems in any case, as molars have varied surfaces and tend to have cracks and fissures.
If you have wisdom teeth, watch for the following:
- Swollen gums
- Tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Jaw pain at the back of the mouth
- Swelling at the jaw
- Bad breath
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth
What’s next for your wisdom teeth? We will take x-rays and determine the best course of action. If this involves extraction, don’t stress: the sooner these teeth are gone, the better you’ll feel. Get in touch with Sterling Dental Clinic for any questions or to schedule an appointment.