When Is It Time to Remove Wisdom Teeth? Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

Are you experiencing tooth pain or swollen and tender gums in the back of your mouth? Do you have problems opening your mouth, an unpleasant taste, crowded teeth, or jaw pain and stiffness? These are signs that your wisdom teeth (or third molars) are causing problems and may need to be removed. 

At Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals in Sheffield and Florence, AL, our team evaluates each patient carefully to determine the course of treatment. If you're dealing with discomfort or have questions about your wisdom teeth, call now to schedule an appointment. 

What are third molars? 

So, what are third molars? Third molars are the last set of teeth to develop in your mouth. They tend to emerge in your late teens or early twenties, though some people never develop them. 

When third molars don't have enough space to erupt normally, they can grow at odd angles, get trapped beneath the gumline, or only partially emerge. This can create a range of problems that may require wisdom tooth removal. 

Symptoms to watch for 

Here are some common signs that your wisdom teeth may need to be removed:  

• Persistent tooth pain: Pain in the back of your mouth, especially near the molars, is a sign that wisdom teeth are causing trouble. The pain may come and go or worsen over time. 
• Swollen and tender gums: If the area around your back teeth feels swollen, red, or tender, it could mean your wisdom teeth are trying to push through or are causing irritation. 
• Difficulty opening your mouth: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause stiffness or discomfort when you try to open your mouth fully. 
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth: An odd or unpleasant taste in the mouth, along with bad breath, can indicate an infection around a partially erupted wisdom tooth. 
• Crowding or shifting teeth: If your other teeth start to shift or feel crowded, it may be because your wisdom teeth are pushing against them. 
• Jaw pain or stiffness: Discomfort in your jaw, particularly near the back, can be a sign that your third molars are impacted or growing improperly. 

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms in Sheffield or Florence, AL, it's important to have your wisdom teeth evaluated. Early intervention can prevent serious complications down the line. 

How wisdom tooth removal works 

During wisdom tooth removal, you'll receive anesthesia or sedation to help keep you comfortable. The tooth is carefully removed, and if it's impacted, a small incision may be made in the gum. The area is then cleaned and stitched if needed. Most patients recover within a few days to a week, with some swelling and discomfort that can be managed with medication and rest. 

Our team at Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal properly and avoid complications. 

Don't ignore the warning signs 

If you're dealing with tooth pain, swollen and tender gums, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth, it may be time to consider wisdom tooth removal. At Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals in Sheffield and Florence, AL, we specialize in safe, effective procedures to address issues with third molars. Whether you have questions such as, "What are third molars?" or want to know if removal is necessary, our team is here to help. Call today for an appointment and get the relief you need.