5 Signs You May Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed
Wisdom teeth — those elusive third molars that typically show up in your late teens or early twenties — can be a bit of a mystery. For some, they come in smoothly and settle in without much fuss. For others, they’re more trouble than they’re worth.
So how do you know when it’s time to say goodbye to those back molars? Here are five signs you may need your wisdom teeth removed.
1. Pain or Discomfort in the Back of Your Mouth
If you’re experiencing pain, pressure, or aching in the very back of your mouth — especially around your molars — your wisdom teeth might be the culprits. As they try to push through the gums, they can cause inflammation, crowding, or even press against neighboring teeth, which often leads to persistent discomfort.
If this is the case, don’t ignore the pain. If it keeps coming back, it’s worth having a dentist take a look.
2. Swollen or Bleeding Gums
Inflamed gums around your wisdom teeth are a red flag. This condition, called pericoronitis, happens when the tooth is partially erupted, and bacteria or food particles get trapped under the gum flap. This can lead to swelling, tenderness, and bleeding while brushing. Bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, or visible swelling near your jaw are symptoms of this.
3. Frequent Headaches or Jaw Stiffness
Impacted wisdom teeth (teeth that don’t have enough room to emerge) can push against surrounding teeth, leading to headaches, jaw tension, and even pain that radiates through your ears or neck.
The pressure from misaligned wisdom teeth can shift your bite and cause ongoing discomfort, making chewing or opening your mouth painful.
4. Crowding or Shifting Teeth
Did you have braces once upon a time? Wisdom teeth can undo all that hard work. As they push in, they can cause your existing teeth to shift — leading to crowding, overlapping, or changes in your bite.
Early detection is key. If your teeth are starting to shift for no apparent reason, a dental x-ray might reveal that your wisdom teeth are to blame.
5. Repeated Infections or Cysts
When wisdom teeth don't erupt properly, they can create a breeding ground for infection. In some cases, they may even develop cysts — fluid-filled sacs that can damage the roots of nearby teeth or the jawbone.
Warning signs include recurrent pain, swelling, or unexplained dental infections around your back molars.
When in Doubt, See a Dentist
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries — and when done at the right time, it can prevent a lot of future pain and dental complications. If you’re noticing any of the signs above, book an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon. A simple x-ray can determine whether removal is the right move for you.
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but if your mouth is trying to tell you something — listen! Catching the warning signs early can save you from more complex procedures down the road.