We all want to live a healthy lifestyle. While many people may focus on a healthy diet or regular exercise, it’s also important to pay attention to how your oral health affects the whole body. Our oral health can affect us in a range of ways. In fact, over 90 percent of all systemic diseases (like diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver, and HIV) can produce symptoms in the mouth.
When we neglect our oral health, it can result in discomfort and pain whenever we eat, drink or even breathe. Wisdom teeth, for example, can be a source of pain, irritation, and discomfort. Keep reading and discover how your wisdom teeth may impact your overall health. If necessary we’ll help you determine a plan for treatment.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the rearmost, third molars that most people develop after puberty. Often called “the 18-year molar” as we are expected to have wisdom by that age, hence the name “wisdom teeth.” These molars usually develop between the ages of 17-21. Like our other teeth, they often lead to some tenderness and discomfort when they grow in.
Sometimes when these teeth try to erupt, they do not have room in the mouth. They can become “impacted,” or trapped in the jaw. When they do not come incorrectly, they can allow food to become trapped. As the food deteriorates, it can lead to unpleasant bacteria which may cause infections. Without sufficient room to grow, they can damage neighboring teeth.
If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to get your wisdom teeth removed. A 3D Cone Beam will be used to determine the best course of action. Four Seasons Dental Spa has the latest 3D Cone Beam Technology for dental imaging available. 3D Cone imaging uses a fraction of the radiation of traditional panoramic dental x-rays.
Signs You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled
If you have some of the following signs of wisdom teeth coming in, then contact Four Seasons Dental Spa for a FREE consultation:
Jaw pain and stiffness
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause damage to the supporting bones, which can cause a lot of jaw pain. If left unchecked, they can even result in an agonizing cyst. Even if wisdom teeth are not impacted, they can cause significant pain, stiffness, and TMJ (Temporomandibular
Joint Dysfunction). Furthermore, wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth which in turn can a multitude of issues.
Tender or sore gums
Of course, there are a number of reasons why we might get sore gums, but wisdom teeth can be a cause of particularly acute and persistent pain. As wisdom teeth break through the gums, they can be vulnerable to infection. As such, excessive soreness, redness, and pain in the gums can lead to serious problems. Don’t wait, consult with Four Seasons Dental Spa if the gums surrounding your wisdom teeth are sore or red.
Bad Breath (Halatosis)
During the eruption of your wisdom teeth bacteria have the opportunity to enter into the open spaces causing odor, infection, and pain. As these teeth are the furthest back it is often unlikely you are able to get the area cleaned effectively with your normal care. Removal of your wisdom teeth may be recommended to help reduce the risk of further infection.
Persistent pain while eating
Wisdom teeth can cause a little pain and discomfort when coming in. However, if you notice persistent pain when eating, this may be a sign that they are not growing in properly. Your wisdom teeth may be growing in at the wrong angle which could have damaging consequences for the surrounding teeth and gums.
Contact Four Seasons Dental Spa for a FREE Wisdom Tooth Consultation
If you experience any of these symptoms or have questions and concerns about wisdom teeth contact the experts at Four Seasons Dental Spa to make your appointment today! We can help you determine a safe and effective treatment plan to relieve any discomfort.