If you’ve been dealing with swelling or discomfort in the back of your mouth, it could be your wisdom teeth making their appearance. These last molars can cause more harm than good, often leading to crowding, soreness, or infection. Removing them can protect your smile now and help you avoid future dental problems. Schedule your consultation with the trusted providers at McKenzie Dental Center in Springfield, OR, today.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have enough room for them to grow in without trouble, many experience issues when the teeth become impacted or misaligned. When this happens, they can contribute to discomfort and ongoing dental complications.
- Final molars to develop: Usually appear during early adulthood, often after all other permanent teeth have settled.
- Often impacted: May stay trapped beneath the gums or only partially emerge, making cleaning more difficult.
- Potential oral health risks: Can lead to decay, gum infections, or damage to nearby teeth if left untreated.
Reasons For A Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction may be recommended to prevent or stop problems before they worsen. Addressing the issue early can save you from unnecessary discomfort and help you maintain proper alignment and oral health. This simple preventive step can make a big difference for your smile.
- Prevent overcrowding: Stops your teeth from shifting out of alignment and affecting your bite.
- Lower infection risk: Reduces the chance of gum disease or painful abscesses forming around the tooth.
- Safeguard nearby teeth: Protects your second molars from cavities, enamel wear, or root damage.
Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted
Some patients notice clear warning signs, while others learn about the need for removal during a routine exam. Knowing what to look for can help you seek treatment before a problem turns serious. Getting ahead of these symptoms often means an easier recovery.
- Swelling in the back of the mouth: Often a sign of irritation, inflammation, or trapped food particles.
- Jaw stiffness or soreness: May make it harder to open your mouth or enjoy certain foods.
- Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth: Can indicate impaction or misalignment with other teeth.
- Ongoing bad breath: Could be caused by bacteria collecting around partially erupted wisdom teeth.
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days following wisdom tooth extraction, as long as they follow the aftercare instructions provided. Our team ensures you know exactly how to care for your mouth to promote healing and avoid complications. With the right steps, you can recover comfortably and confidently.
- Use cold compresses: Helps reduce swelling and keeps you more comfortable in the first 48 hours.
- Choose soft foods: Makes eating easier while giving your gums and jaw time to recover.
- Follow care instructions closely: Ensures faster healing and helps prevent infection or dry socket.
- Stay hydrated: Aids in recovery and keeps your mouth feeling fresh during the healing process.
Be Wiser, Let Tooth
Worries Go For Good
When wisdom teeth cause problems, the right provider can make all the difference in your experience and results. Our skilled team offers attentive care, advanced techniques, and a commitment to your comfort from start to finish. At McKenzie Dental Center in Springfield, OR, you can feel confident knowing your smile is in capable hands. Call today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief.