3 Common Reasons Why Your Wisdom Teeth Hurt

Wisdom Teeth McLean VA

Wisdom Teeth | Your third set of molars is likely to develop between the ages of 16 and 25. Although some patients are not bothered by them, wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort. Due to our changes in diet and lifestyle, our jaws have been getting smaller, resulting in insufficient room for them to erupt. In most cases, we recommend removing your wisdom teeth as soon as possible to avoid complications later. Below are 3 common reasons why you may experience discomfort from developing wisdom teeth. Learn more and contact us today.

Impacted Teeth

Usually, there is not enough space for your third set of molars to properly erupt in the mouth. As a result, the wisdom tooth can become impacted in different ways. This can cause pain and inflammation around the area of impaction. Although many times the impaction is asymptomatic, we most often will recommend removing the tooth prophylactically knowing that cysts and pathology can develop around unerupted molar later in life.

Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis is an infection of the gum tissue surrounding an unerupted wisdom tooth. Partial eruption creates a gum flap that becomes a  trap for food particles and bacteria. This area can easily become infected and cause pain. Some patients notice swollen lymph nodes in the neck, pain and discharge surrounding the pericoronitis. At times, this can lead to a muscle spasm and difficulty opening the mouth.

Tooth Decay

Your wisdom teeth tend to be difficult to clean. Even the best toothbrush may not properly clean your wisdom teeth. Consequently, decay is likely to occur. Tooth decay occurs when plaque buildup is not thoroughly removed with routine toothbrushing. An unhealthy diet is also a contributor. Left untreated, the wisdom tooth can cause pain, and decay can spread onto adjacent teeth.

Learn More About Wisdom Teeth

A thorough dental exam will provide you with treatment solutions for your oral health. If you still have your wisdom teeth, contact us today. The absence of symptoms does not indicate the absence of disease. Be proactive and learn more about your options. Call 703-356-4822 or book an appointment online. We look forward to assisting you.