What Happens if A Wisdom Tooth is Impacted?

At Leon Springs Dental Center in San Antonio, TX, we often see patients coming in with discomfort in the back of their mouths. They may not know it, but these could be signs of an impacted wisdom tooth. But what are impacted wisdom tooth symptoms? Typically, they might include pain, swelling around the jaw, bad breath, and difficulty opening your mouth. Carolyn B. Walker, DDS, our experienced dentist, emphasizes that if you experience these symptoms, you should seek dental consultation right away. Waiting or ignoring the symptoms can potentially lead to more severe problems down the road.

Can an impacted wisdom tooth be detected on an x-ray?

Yes, determining if you have an impacted wisdom tooth via x-ray can be a useful diagnostic tool. While some signs of an impacted tooth can be detected through a regular dental exam, an x-ray provides a clearer picture. Dr. Walker and her team can see how the tooth is positioned and whether it's causing harm to surrounding teeth or tissues. Early detection can make treatment easier and help prevent complications. An x-ray isn't just about diagnosis; it's about strategic planning for your dental health.

How can you tell if a wisdom tooth is impacted?

Patients often wonder, "What does an impacted wisdom tooth feel like?" Besides the symptoms and x-ray diagnosis, some other signs may point toward an impacted tooth. This could include chronic bad breath, an unpleasant taste when biting down on food, or constant headaches. Regular dental check-ups at Leon Springs Dental Center can help you catch and treat these issues early. The key is not to wait until discomfort turns into severe pain.

Does an impacted wisdom tooth always need to be removed?

Unfortunately, the answer to the question, "Does an impacted wisdom tooth need to be removed?" isn't always straightforward. In some cases, if the tooth is not causing any discomfort or potential for infection, Dr. Walker might suggest monitoring the situation rather than going straight for an impacted wisdom tooth extraction. However, if the tooth is causing pain or has the potential to damage other teeth, extraction would usually be the recommended course of action. Each patient is unique, and we consider all factors when making this decision.

What can you expect from an impacted wisdom tooth extraction?

Removing an impacted wisdom tooth is a procedure frequently carried out by our team. With modern anesthetic methods, the procedure is typically comfortable and efficient. Aftercare is also crucial to ensure swift recovery and prevent complications. We provide comprehensive instructions and support for all our patients throughout the recovery process.

Take control of your oral health

With all this information, it's crucial to remember that addressing an impacted wisdom tooth sooner rather than later can prevent potential complications and unnecessary discomfort. Prompt action can be the difference between a simple procedure and a complicated situation.

Impacted wisdom teeth are not to be taken lightly. At Leon Springs Dental Center, Dr. Carolyn B. Walker and her experienced team are ready to help you with your oral health needs. If you're in the San Antonio, TX area and are experiencing symptoms related to an impacted wisdom tooth, don't hesitate to contact us. Your oral health is our priority.