Please note we may not perform emergency wisdom tooth removals. Contact our office to learn more.
Are You Having Wisdom Tooth Problems?
Are you suffering from pain in the back of your mouth? It may be your wisdom teeth. If your pain has come on suddenly and is causing you immense discomfort, you may be dealing with a wisdom tooth emergency.
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, our Loveland, CO dentist provides emergency dentistry services, including in the case of wisdom teeth. Contact our dental office by calling (970) 669-3918.
Identifying an Emergency Wisdom Tooth Situation
Wisdom teeth can cause more than just discomfort. Emergency wisdom tooth removal becomes necessary when severe pain, infection, and swelling make it impossible to cope. Knowing the signs of a dental emergency can save you from long-term consequences and help you take action.
- Severe Pain and Discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to severe pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth, signaling the need for an emergency extraction. This discomfort can escalate to unbearable levels, making it impossible to chew or speak. The pain could be a sign of an infected or impacted tooth, and ignoring it could result in serious issues like cysts, which can cause harm to adjacent teeth and bone.
- Swelling, redness, and tenderness around the gums: These are also common symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth. While an ice pack can provide temporary relief, scheduling a same-day appointment with your dentist to diagnose the issue is advisable. Left untreated, impacted teeth can lead to gum disease, damage to surrounding tissue, and even tooth loss.
- Infection and Swelling: Infections around the wisdom teeth are sneaky and can cause serious complications when left untreated. Bacteria can attack the gum tissue around the emerging wisdom tooth or enter the hard-to-reach crevices, leading to infection and swelling. Common signs of a wisdom tooth infection include swollen gums, pus or drainage, and in some cases, earaches.
- Difficulty Opening Mouth and Breathing: One of the most concerning signs of an emergency wisdom tooth situation is difficulty opening the mouth and breathing. This can be indicative of a serious medical condition, such as an infection or abscess, and requires immediate attention.
The Importance of Prompt Action
Time is of the essence when it comes to emergency wisdom tooth removal. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications, including damage to surrounding teeth, gum disease, and systemic infections. Taking prompt action can save you from pain and costly dental treatments.
Damage to Surrounding Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause several problems, including:
- Crowding of adjacent teeth
- Gum disease
- Damage to the soft tissues
- Misalignment of teeth
- Tooth decay
- Tooth loss
Gum Disease and Periodontal Issues
Impacted wisdom teeth are a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing your risk of gum disease and periodontal issues. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, deterioration of the jaw bone, and even contribute to cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Systemic Infections
When wisdom tooth infections are left untreated, they can escalate into systemic infections that affect other parts of the body. Bacteremia, endocarditis, and sepsis are life-threatening infections that can arise from untreated wisdom tooth infections.
How to Prevent Wisdom Tooth Emergencies
Routine Dental Examinations
Regular dental check-ups are your first defense against wisdom tooth emergencies. Dentists assess your teeth, gums, and jaw for any signs of infection or damage and take X-rays to detect potential underlying issues. Scheduling regular dental examinations can save you time, money, and pain by catching problems early before they escalate into dental emergencies.
Early Detection and Intervention
Catching wisdom tooth issues early can make all the difference. Extraction is generally recommended for wisdom teeth that have erupted without complications, as opposed to fillings, crowns, or root canals. By detecting and addressing potential issues, you can avoid more severe conditions and costly treatments later.
Maintaining Good Oral Health
A healthy lifestyle and proper oral hygiene are crucial for preventing wisdom tooth emergencies. Brushing and flossing regularly, using an antiseptic mouthwash, and maintaining a balanced diet can help minimize the risk of developing dental problems. If you’re experiencing discomfort around your wisdom teeth, make sure they’re cleaned thoroughly to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wisdom teeth extraction can be an emergency if the tooth is crowding or causing damage to surrounding teeth and tissue, necessitating immediate extraction to prevent further complications.
If you experience red, swollen, or tender gums, swelling, pain, sensitivity, or pus coming from the gum near your wisdom tooth, it may be a sign of an infection and you should contact your dentist immediately.
Contact Dr. Howard for Emergency Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Ready to get those wisdom teeth removed? If you’re dealing with unbearable pain or other symptoms, contact our dentist today. To schedule an appointment, contact our Loveland dental office at (970) 669-3918. We welcome patients from Boulder, Fort Collins, and Evans.