dental hygiene
Why Does a Lower Wisdom Tooth Get Impacted?
Your lower jaw simply may not have enough space for that last tooth. And wisdom teeth are usually the final ones to arrive, so they can end up with nowhere useful to go. The tooth may grow at an angle instead of pointing straight upward.
Signs You Might Notice
• A dull ache near the back of your jaw, particularly when you chew.
• Gum swelling around the wisdom tooth. It often feels tender when you brush there.
• Trouble opening your mouth fully, although this doesn’t happen to everyone.
Does an Impacted Tooth Always Need Removal?
No. But if it’s causing repeated pain or infection, removal is often the sensible option. Dentists also look at whether the tooth is damaging the tooth beside it or creating another problem that’s likely to get worse.
Getting a Lower Wisdom Tooth Checked
Don’t wait for severe pain before having it looked at. A dental X-ray gives your dentist a much clearer picture of what’s happening below the gum, including the direction of the tooth and how close it sits to nearby structures.
Disclaimer
The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.
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