Have you just noticed a toothache? Perhaps you aren’t sure if you have an infection in your mouth. You might have heard some horror stories about wisdom teeth. The ones that hadn’t come through the gums before your birth might grow inwards when you are an adult.
But it can cause problems if they cause discomfort. So, what is the best course of action if you want an emergency wisdom tooth extraction?
Keep reading our guide to learn if this might be life-saving.
Severe Pain and Discomfort
One of the most common indicators that you may need an urgent wisdom tooth removal is persistent and severe pain in the back of your mouth. This pain can radiate to the jaw, ear, and even the neck.
When a wisdom tooth becomes impacted, it means that it doesn’t fully emerge from the gum. This can cause intense pressure and pain, signaling the need for prompt attention from a dental professional.
Swelling and Redness
Inflammation around the affected area is another significant sign that your wisdom tooth may be causing problems. Swelling and redness may occur as a result of infection or impaction.
Ignoring these signs can lead to more severe issues, such as the formation of an abscess, which is a collection of pus. This requires emergency dental intervention to prevent the spread of infection.
Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
If you find it increasingly challenging to open your mouth fully or experience discomfort while doing so, it could be a sign that your wisdom tooth is causing problems. This limitation in jaw movement may be due to swelling, inflammation, or the tooth pressing against nearby structures. Seeking emergency dental care can help alleviate the issue before it worsens.
Unpleasant Taste or Odor
An infected or impacted wisdom tooth can result in the release of foul-smelling pus. This leads to a persistent unpleasant taste or odor in your mouth. This is often a sign of infection, and addressing it promptly is essential to prevent the spread of bacteria and further complications.
Difficulty Chewing
If you notice difficulty or pain while chewing, particularly in the back of your mouth, it could be attributed to problems with your wisdom teeth. Impacted or infected wisdom teeth can make it uncomfortable to eat. Avoiding this discomfort may lead to poor nutrition and other health issues.
Headaches and Jaw Pain
Problems with wisdom teeth can contribute to headaches and jaw pain. The pressure and inflammation caused by impacted or infected wisdom teeth can radiate to the surrounding areas. This leads to persistent headaches and discomfort in the jaw joint.
Gum Infection (Gingivitis or Periodontitis)
Wisdom teeth that are difficult to clean due to their location at the back of the mouth are susceptible to gum infections such as gingivitis or periodontitis. Symptoms include swollen, bleeding gums and pain.
In severe cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, emphasizing the importance of seeking emergency dental care. For more information, you can visit this dedicated web page on wisdom tooth removal.
Do You Need an Emergency Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
It is important to pay attention to any of the top signs that indicate the need for an emergency wisdom tooth extraction. Neglecting these symptoms may result in additional complications and discomfort.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for an immediate evaluation. Your oral health and well-being are too important to ignore. Book an appointment today and experience the relief you deserve.
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