Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars in each quadrant of the mouth, typically emerge when an individual enters adulthood, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. The growth process of wisdom teeth can be a unique experience and sometimes lead to various dental health issues, especially in the form known as impacted teeth.

What is Wisdom Tooth Impaction?

Wisdom tooth impaction occurs when these teeth are unable to grow normally or emerge properly from the gums. Most cases of impacted wisdom teeth are caused by limited space in the jaw or improper positioning during growth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and even infections if not properly addressed.

Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Impaction

Although wisdom teeth are often associated with the transition from adolescence to adulthood, their growth is not always flawless. Symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth are characterized by:

1. Pain

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause sharp or continuous pain in the surrounding area.

2. Swelling and Redness

Gums around impacted wisdom teeth may become swollen and red, indicating a potential infection. Swelling can extend to the neck area accompanied by symptoms of difficulty eating to difficulty breathing and can result in fatal consequences or death.

3. Discomfort while Chewing

Difficulty in chewing food may arise due to the suboptimal position of impacted wisdom teeth.

4. Difficulty Cleaning Teeth

Limited access makes it challenging to clean impacted wisdom teeth by brushing or using dental floss, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities.

How to Treat Wisdom Tooth Impaction?

By consulting with a dentist, you can monitor the progress of wisdom teeth during routine examinations and determine if further action is necessary. Some possible measures include:

1. Tooth Extraction

If impacted wisdom teeth pose serious issues, a dentist may recommend extracting the teeth to prevent further complications.

2. Surgical Intervention

In more complex cases, surgery may be necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth.

3. Symptom Management

Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce pain and swelling.

Preventing Wisdom Tooth Impaction

1. Regular dental check-ups help dentists identify potential wisdom tooth impaction early.
2. Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, can prevent dental issues, including wisdom tooth impaction.
3. If you experience symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth, do not hesitate to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon for appropriate treatment.

With a solid understanding of wisdom tooth impaction and suitable preventive measures, if your Hermina companion experiences pain or discomfort when back teeth are growing, promptly seek the advice of a dentist or an oral surgery specialist at Hermina Podomoro Hospital for proper management of potential wisdom tooth impaction.

References:

• American Dental Association. (n.d.). Impacted Wisdom Teeth. Retrieved from https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/wisdom-teeth
• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Impacted Wisdom Teeth. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/symptoms-causes/syc-20373808