Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars to develop and usually appear during the late teenage years or early adulthood. Some people have enough space for their wisdom teeth to develop without causing problems, while others experience discomfort or changes that require dental assessment. Because wisdom teeth develop differently from person to person, your dentist can monitor them and explain what is happening as they emerge.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Most people develop up to four wisdom teeth, with one located at the back of each corner of the mouth. However, some people have fewer, and some do not develop wisdom teeth at all.
When a wisdom tooth has enough room to emerge and remains healthy, your dentist may simply monitor it during regular examinations. When there is limited space or the tooth does not emerge normally, it may require closer assessment.
Your dentist may use dental x-rays where clinically appropriate to assess the position of wisdom teeth beneath the gum or within the jaw.
What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause?
Wisdom teeth do not automatically require removal. However, problems can occur depending on their position, development and surrounding oral health.
You may notice symptoms, such as:
- Pain or tenderness at the back of the mouth
- Swelling around the gum
- Difficulty cleaning around the tooth
- Food becoming trapped around the area
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Bad taste or unpleasant breath
- Discomfort when chewing
These symptoms can have several possible causes, so it's important to have them assessed rather than assuming your wisdom teeth are responsible.
When Should You See Your Dentist?
If you experience persistent pain, swelling or other changes around your wisdom teeth, contact your dental practice. Your Bayswater dentist can examine the area and determine whether further assessment or treatment is appropriate.
Severe swelling, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or other serious symptoms require urgent medical attention.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed?
Not always! Your dentist assesses each wisdom tooth individually and considers factors such as its:
- Position
- Development
- Symptoms
- Surrounding oral health
If removal is appropriate, your dentist explains why and discusses the available treatment options. In other circumstances, your dentist may recommend monitoring the wisdom tooth during regular appointments.
There's no single approach that applies to everyone. Your dentist bases their recommendations on your individual circumstances and discusses the potential benefits, risks and alternatives before treatment.
Looking After Your Wisdom Teeth
Good oral hygiene remains important while your wisdom teeth develop. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth as recommended by your dental practitioner. Regular dental exams in Bayswater also allow your dentist to monitor changes and discuss any concerns you may have.
Are you experiencing discomfort at the back of your mouth or have questions about your wisdom teeth? We invite you to contact your dental practice. We welcome new patients, and you can call us on (08) 9386 0823.