Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to erupt in the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth at the back of their mouth – two at the top and two on the bottom. Wisdom teeth, less commonly known as third molars, usually appear between the ages of 17 and 21. If there is room in the mouth, the emergence of wisdom teeth can mean a little discomfort while they break through the gums, but there should be no pain. Problems arise when wisdom teeth are impacted.
What is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?
If there isn’t enough space in your mouth or the teeth emerge in the wrong position, your wisdom teeth are said to be impacted. This means that your teeth are confined beneath the gum line and/or behind the second molars. Some people experience one impacted tooth, while others, unfortunately, have all four teeth trapped in the jaw or gums.
Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth don’t always cause symptoms. However, if a wisdom tooth becomes infected, doesn’t erupt, partially erupts, or causes other oral health issues, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Infection
- Pain
- Damage to neighboring teeth
- Headaches
- Bad breath
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Cysts
- Jaw pain
- Tumors
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Gum disease/swelling and bleeding of the gums
- Swelling around the jaw
- Difficulty opening your mouth
Best Wisdom Teeth Removal NYC
Because impacted wisdom teeth often produce so many symptoms, we recommend they be surgically removed. Each patient’s case is unique. We will go over your case with you before the procedure to determine the level of anesthesia — IV sedation or general anesthesia — that will be required and to also go over how to care for your oral health after surgery.
But what happens if you forget our instructions? Never fear! We have an entire PDF on oral healthcare after tooth extractions available for you here.
It’s no surprise that the best wisdom teeth removal in NYC is performed by Dr. Ghazal Mahjoubi, the best oral surgeon in NYC! Dr. Mahjoubi uses the most cutting-edge technology, sedation, and techniques while operating. While you are in our office for wisdom teeth surgery, she and the entire Upper East team give you all their attention and care. If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are negatively impacting your oral health, please call our office immediately to schedule an appointment to discuss your case.
