7 Clear Signs It Might Be Time to Remove Your Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth usually show up between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, these teeth come in without problems. But for many others, they can lead to pain, crowding, and other dental issues. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to have your wisdom teeth checked, paying attention to a few warning signs can help.

If you’re searching for a dentist Calgary residents rely on for wisdom teeth concerns, understanding these symptoms is important. A proper evaluation can prevent more serious dental issues down the road and help you maintain a healthy smile.

1. Pain at the Back of Your Mouth

One of the most common early signs is pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth. This pain might come and go or feel constant. It often worsens as the teeth try to push through the gums.

What to watch for:

  • Throbbing or sharp pain near the jaw or ear
  • Pain that spreads to nearby teeth
  • Discomfort while chewing

2. Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Swollen or red gums near the wisdom teeth are another sign of trouble. If the teeth are impacted or partially erupted, bacteria can get trapped and cause infection or irritation.

Symptoms include:

  • Tender or puffy gums around the back molars
  • Gums that bleed while brushing
  • Difficulty cleaning the area properly

3. Jaw Stiffness or Swelling

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause jaw stiffness or a feeling of pressure near the joint. If you notice your jaw feels tight or swollen, it may be due to wisdom teeth pressing against surrounding structures.

Other signs:

  • Limited ability to open your mouth
  • Clicking or popping in the jaw
  • Swelling around the cheeks or jawline

4. Headaches or Earaches

Pain from wisdom teeth can radiate, leading to headaches or discomfort in the ears. This type of referred pain is common when the teeth are putting pressure on nerves or jaw muscles.

If you’re noticing:

  • Frequent headaches without other clear causes
  • Pain behind the ears or near the temples

It may be time to visit a Calgary dentist for an exam.

5. Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste

Partially erupted wisdom teeth are hard to clean. Food particles and bacteria can build up, leading to bad breath or a sour taste that doesn’t go away, even after brushing.

Warning signs:

  • Persistent bad breath
  • Metallic or foul taste in your mouth
  • Signs of infection, such as pus

6. Shifting Teeth or Crowding

If your wisdom teeth are pushing against other teeth, they can cause misalignment. You might feel pressure or notice your teeth are shifting out of place, especially if you’ve had braces before.

Look for:

  • New crowding or overlapping teeth
  • Change in bite alignment
  • Tight feeling around molars

7. Recurring Infections or Cysts

Impacted teeth can lead to cysts or repeated infections around the gum area. These can damage nearby teeth or bone if not treated early.

Symptoms may include:

  • Ongoing gum inflammation
  • Painful lumps near the back of the mouth
  • Drainage or pus near the gums

Conclusion

Wisdom teeth don’t always need to be removed, but if you’re experiencing any of the signs above, it’s important to have them evaluated. Delaying treatment can lead to long-term issues like decay, crowding, and jaw discomfort.

For trusted Wisdom Teeth Removal in Calgary, contact Inglewood Family Dental in Calgary. Our experienced team provides safe, comfortable care tailored to your needs. Whether you’re in pain or just want an expert opinion, we’re here to help you protect your oral health.