If you are an adult you have most likely had your wisdom teeth removed or at least heard of the procedure. If you have never heard of such a thing, never fear, Dental Associates of Delaware is here to explain what wisdom teeth are, how they affect you, and how you can identify when it is time to get them removed.
What Exactly Are Wisdom Teeth?
In short, your wisdom teeth are your third molars. Typically most people have three sets of molars that develop in the mouth on the upper, low and right and left side. While your first molars will grow in around the age of six, your second molars grow in around the age of twelve. It isn’t until around the age range of 17-21 that people tend to grow their third molars, known as the wisdom teeth. The name wisdom teeth comes from the idea that it is around this age that people begin to get a little bit wiser, hence the name “wisdom teeth”. If they grow in appropriately then they are no different than any other tooth with the exception of coming in later than the other molars. However, it does not always occur that wisdom teeth grow in properly, in which case they are removed.
How To Identify Impacted Wisdom Teeth
If you are experiencing some pain and aching in the back of your mouth this is most likely a result of your wisdom teeth. According to the Mayo Clinic if you are experiencing the following symptoms you should visit your local dentist in order to confirm that your wisdom teeth are impacted:
- Red or swollen gums
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Jaw pain
- Swelling around the jaw
- Bad breath
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth
Should you find yourself experiencing any of the above listed symptoms please contact Dental Associates of Delaware immediately for an appointment for the optimal healthy Delaware smile.
Schedule A Consultation With Your Dentists in Brandywine, Hockessin, Middletown, Wilmington, Millsboro, and Ocean View, DE
At Dental Associates of Delaware we are proud to be able to serve six wonderful communities with the best in dental care. If you are in the Brandywine, Hockessin, Middletown, Wilmington, Millsboro, or Ocean View, DE area and in need of dental care please do not hesitate to reach out to one of our offices. Should you be experiencing any of the symptoms related to impacted wisdom teeth we encourage you to contact us immediately.