Some people’s wisdom teeth erupt perfectly, with no fanfare, no drama. For other people, though, they may have an impacted or partially impacted tooth that can cause issues (sometimes, at very inopportune times). If you’re wondering what signs you should be aware of, we’ll look at the facts below.
What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
A fully impacted tooth is a back molar that sits under the gumline, while a partially impacted molar is one that only partially breaks through the gumline (even if it’s just a tiny spike).
Are All Impacted Wisdom Teeth a Problem?
Not necessarily. A dentist in Windermere, FL can tell you that, for some people, an impacted wisdom tooth won’t interfere with their oral health, nor will it cause any negative symptoms.
How Do I Know If I Have One?
In some cases, you can run your tongue along your back teeth and feel the partially erupted tooth or a glaring gap where the wisdom tooth will be.
The other major indicator is if you have any symptoms of an impacted tooth, which may include:
- Pain in the mouth, gums, jaw, or face.
- Persistent bad breath from the back of the mouth.
- Swelling in the gums or lymph nodes around the neck.
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth.
- Fever accompanied by tooth or jaw pain.
Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth a Dental Emergency in Windermere, FL?
If you’re experiencing severe pain or fever, there’s no question that it’s time to call an emergency dentist in Windermere, FL. However, even if you have less severe symptoms, you may want to consult with a professional. At Inspired Dental, we can tell you more about when it’s time to take action about an impaction.