Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed but for many people, these late-arriving molars cause more problems than they solve. Here’s how to tell whether extraction is something you need.

Why Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems?

Wisdom teeth usually emerge between ages 17 and 25, often when there isn’t enough room left in the jaw. This can cause them to grow at an angle, become partially trapped under the gum (impacted) or push against neighbouring teeth.

What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

An impacted wisdom tooth is one that does not fully emerge through the gums or does not grow into its proper position. It may become trapped underneath the gum or against another tooth and sometimes can cause problems with the surrounding teeth and gums.

Common types of impactions of wisdom teeth:

• Grow at an angle towards the neighbouring tooth
• Grow backwards towards the jaw
• Remain underneath the gum
• Partially emerge through the gum

What Are the Signs You May Need Your Wisdom Tooth Checked?

You should arrange a dental examination if you experience symptoms such as:

• Pain at the back of your mouth
• Swollen or tender gums
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Pain when chewing
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
• Food frequently getting trapped around the wisdom tooth
• Repeated swelling around the back molar

These symptoms do not automatically mean that your wisdom tooth needs to be removed. A dental examination is necessary to determine the cause.

What Happens During a Wisdom Tooth Assessment?

Your dentist will examine the area around your wisdom tooth and may recommend an X-ray to see the tooth’s position beneath the gums. The assessment can help determine:

• Whether the tooth is impacted
• How the tooth is positioned
• Whether it is affecting nearby teeth
• Whether there are signs of infection or decay
• Whether extraction is recommended

Based on these findings, your dentist can explain the available treatment options.

What the Procedure Involves?

Extraction is typically done under local anaesthesia (or sedation for more complex cases), and most patients recover within a few days to a week with proper aftercare — ice packs, soft foods and good oral hygiene around the site.

When Should You Contact DMH Dental?

A dental examination can help determine whether your wisdom tooth can be monitored or whether extraction may be the better option. Arrange a dental assessment if your wisdom tooth causes persistent pain or develops a visible crack. Facial swelling, fever or severe throbbing pain requires urgent attention.

Book your appointment with DMH Dental to arrange a dental assessment and find out what is best for your oral health.