Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often emerge during the late teens and early twenties. For many in New Jersey, this rite of passage can come with a host of complications, from pain and swelling to long-term dental damage. Early and consistent monitoring is the best way to prevent issues. In his Westfield, New Jersey office, Dr. Aristo Carranza focuses on assessing and managing wisdom teeth to protect patient health before complications develop.
Why Wisdom Teeth Often Cause Issues
The primary issue with wisdom teeth is a lack of space. Today’s jaws are frequently not large enough for these final molars, which results in a state known as impaction. An impacted tooth is one that is trapped beneath the gum line or has only partially erupted. This can lead to:
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Pain and Discomfort: A persistent ache or pressure in the back of the jaw.
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Infection: Teeth that have only partly emerged provide a gateway for bacteria, causing painful infections like pericoronitis.
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Damage to Adjacent Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against neighboring molars, causing cavities, root damage, and misalignment.
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Cyst Formation: In some cases, a fluid-filled sac (cyst) can form around the impacted tooth, which can damage the jawbone and surrounding structures.
Crucial Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
It’s crucial not to ignore the subtle signals your body sends. If you or your teen experience any of the following, it’s time to schedule an evaluation:
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Persistent Jaw Pain or Stiffness: Especially noticeable in the morning or when chewing.
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Inflamed, Sensitive, or Bleeding Gums: Directly in the area behind your final set of molars.
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Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste: This may signal an underlying infection.
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Difficulty Opening Your Mouth Wide: Known as trismus, this points to inflammation in the jaw muscles.
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Persistent Headaches or Ear Pain: Discomfort from an impacted tooth can spread, leading to pain in other parts of the head.
Your Proactive Evaluation with Dr. Aristo Carranza
The best way to prevent these issues is with an early evaluation. Dr. Aristo Carranza uses advanced diagnostic tools, including dental X-rays, to assess the position, development, and trajectory of your wisdom teeth. This enables him to predict whether they will probably create issues later on.
Waiting for severe pain is a reactive approach. A proactive consultation at our Westfield office ensures you have a clear plan, protecting your smile and overall health from preventable complications.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t wait for complications to dictate your oral health. If you or a family member are in your teens or early twenties, or if you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, contact us.
Set up your wisdom teeth assessment with Dr. Aristo Carranza by phone or WhatsApp at (908) 444-3200. You can find our practice conveniently located at 301 Lenox Avenue, Westfield NJ 07090.
