Unlike their name, the only wisdom that wisdom teeth provide is usually accompanied by some pain, discomfort, and yes, the inevitable surgery required to remove these unnecessary teeth. If you are suffering from some oral comfort, read about these 4 signs of impacted wisdom teeth in order to get to the root of the problem.
- Tender or Bleeding Gums
If you’re not a frequent flosser, your gums might get irritated and start bleeding after you floss. However, if you notice that your molars are feeling extra tender and are bleeding more than normal, this is an indication that your wisdom teeth might be impacted. Pay close attention to when your gums start to bleed and if the bleeding subsides.
- Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
This is one of the most fervent indications that you have impacted wisdom teeth. Difficulty opening your mouth is due to the intense inflammation of your jaw caused by the pressure of the wisdom teeth moving upwards. Try icing your jaw for a day or two and if the problem hasn’t subsided, go to a dentist to have it checked out.
- Red or Swollen Gums
Although impacted wisdom teeth aren’t notorious for being very painful, if you notice that your gums are swollen or are bright red near the back of your mouth, then it’s time to get them looked at.
- Bad Breath
If you have bad breath when you wake up in the morning, it’s natural and is nothing to be alarmed of. However, if you have bad breath right after you’ve brushed your teeth, and you’re experiencing some of the other signs of impacted wisdom teeth, it may be time to see a dentist. When teeth are impacted, they tend to crowd your other teeth, causing the frequency of food being trapped and bad breath occurring.
Bad breath and tender gums are fairly common oral problems that may occur on an almost daily basis. However, if you are noticing excessive symptoms or the addition of symptoms such as difficulty opening your mouth, you might have impacted wisdom teeth. Contact a dentist today to learn more.