Wisdom teeth — also known as third molars — usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. For some, they grow in without causing issues. For many others, however, wisdom teeth can lead to discomfort, dental problems, and complications that require removal.

At Elevate Oral Surgery, our experienced team, led by a skilled dentist in Roselle Park NJ, helps patients identify early warning signs and provides expert wisdom tooth removal when needed.

Here are key symptoms that may indicate it’s time to have your wisdom teeth checked:

1. Pain or Discomfort at the Back of Your Mouth

One of the earliest and most obvious signs is persistent pain behind your molars. This pain can be sharp, throbbing, or a dull ache — and may intensify while chewing or opening your mouth. It often indicates that the wisdom teeth are pushing against adjacent teeth or are stuck (impacted) beneath the gum line.

2. Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Swelling, tenderness, or bleeding near the wisdom teeth are signs of inflammation, known as pericoronitis. This happens when the partially erupted tooth allows food and bacteria to get trapped under the gum flap, leading to infection.

3. Jaw Stiffness or Difficulty Opening Your Mouth

If you’re experiencing stiffness in your jaw, especially near the back, or if you find it difficult to open your mouth fully, impacted wisdom teeth could be putting pressure on surrounding structures or causing inflammation in the jaw joints.

4. Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste

Trapped food particles and bacteria around partially erupted wisdom teeth can lead to persistent bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth — even after brushing and flossing.

5. Crowded or Shifting Teeth

Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough room to come in properly. As they try to force their way in, they can push against your existing teeth, causing crowding or shifting. This is especially concerning if you’ve had orthodontic work done.

6. Frequent Infections or Cysts

In some cases, cysts or infections can develop around impacted wisdom teeth. These can damage nearby teeth, roots, or even the jawbone if left untreated. Regular dental checkups and X-rays can help detect these issues early.

7. Sinus Problems (Surprising but True!)

Upper wisdom teeth sit close to your sinus cavities. When they erupt or become infected, they can cause sinus pressure, headaches, and even congestion. If you’re experiencing sinus issues with no clear cause, your wisdom teeth could be the culprit.

When to See an Oral Surgeon

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a consultation with our expert team at Elevate Oral Surgery. We’ll perform a thorough exam and take X-rays to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine whether removal is necessary.

Our goal is to provide you with a safe, comfortable experience and help you avoid long-term dental complications.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Don’t wait until your symptoms worsen. Choose a trusted Roselle Park dental service for your wisdom teeth evaluation and treatment.