Signs You Need to Have Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 – 25. But, how do you know when wisdom teeth removal is necessary? If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or other issues related to these teeth, it might be time to consult a professional. The team at San Ramon Family Dental specializes in wisdom teeth removal and can help determine if it's time to get rid of wisdom teeth pain before it gets worse. Recognizing the signs early can help you avoid discomfort and future complications in San Ramon, CA. 

What are wisdom teeth, and why can they cause problems? 

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the very back of the mouth. While they once helped our ancestors chew tough foods, today they often cause issues because our jaws are smaller. This can lead to impacted wisdom teeth, meaning they don't have enough space to come in properly. Impacted teeth can grow at odd angles or remain trapped beneath the gum, causing pain and swelling. 

When to worry about wisdom teeth pain or discomfort 

Pain from wisdom teeth is one of the most common reasons people seek dental care. Here are a few signs it might be time to see a dentist:  

• Persistent wisdom toothache 
• Swelling around the gums 
• Difficulty opening your mouth 
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste 
• Redness or inflammation near the affected tooth 

These symptoms often point to infection or pressure on nearby teeth or other oral health concerns. Our team will carefully evaluate these signs to determine if wisdom teeth removal is right for you. 

What are the risks of delaying wisdom teeth extraction? 

Waiting too long to remove problematic wisdom teeth can lead to complications. Impacted teeth may form cysts, damage nearby teeth, or increase your risk of gum disease. The longer you wait, the more complex the surgical extraction may become. In many cases, early intervention leads to a smoother recovery and prevents more serious oral health issues from developing. 

Is wisdom tooth removal necessary? 

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. Sometimes, these molars grow in without causing pain or alignment problems. However, if your wisdom teeth are impacted, causing crowding or leading to infection, removal becomes the healthier option. Surgical extractions might be recommended even before pain starts, especially if x-rays show that the teeth could cause issues later. The decision to remove wisdom teeth is personalized and based on your oral health, pain levels, and potential risks. 

Ready to get rid of wisdom teeth pain? 

If you're experiencing pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth, don't wait until it worsens. The team at San Ramon Family Dental offers wisdom teeth removal services tailored to your needs. Whether you're dealing with impacted teeth or recurring wisdom toothaches in San Ramon, CA, our experienced dentists can guide you through each step of the extraction process for a smooth recovery. Schedule a consultation today to learn if wisdom tooth removal is necessary and take the first step toward relief.