Most people have four wisdom teeth, two on top and two on the bottom. Wisdom teeth begin to erupt from ages 17-25. Usually, no one notices wisdom teeth until they begin to hurt.
Perplexed people with new wisdom teeth that are uncomfortable will have questions for a dentist. Here are some considerations.

If the wisdom teeth are healthy and present no problem with space, the teeth need not be removed. However, most of us have space for only about 28 teeth in our mouths. Anything more than that may present crowded conditions. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons states that 85 percent of people eventually require wisdom teeth removal. Teeth trapped in the gum under other teeth or bone are especially problematical. These are called impacted wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth removal may be required for the following symptoms:
Headache or Jaw Ache
Headaches or jaw pain may be indicative of impacted wisdom teeth pushing against jaw bone.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Neck
Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that the body is fighting an infection. The gum over the wisdom teeth may have infection or the teeth themselves may be infected.

Difficulty Opening the Mouth
Pain and stiffness in the hinge of the jaw could indicate infection in the posterior area of the mouth where wisdom teeth erupt.

If any of these discomforts arise, please make a dental appointment with a Uptown Charlotte dentist today to have the new teeth examined and X-rayed. X-rays will determine whether the teeth are damaged or impacted and harming other teeth. Our skilled Uptown Charlotte dentist will then determine the exact location of the teeth and advise the best strategy for the wisdom teeth surgery, as symptomatic cases usually require removal. Occasionally, impacted wisdom teeth do not require wisdom teeth surgery, as they are not pressing against other teeth or bone, and show no indications of future distresses.

Pain in the jaw or gum can indicate impacted wisdom teeth. These may need to be checked, and if impacted or infected, removed. A Uptown Charlotte dentist can examine the teeth, X-ray them, and determine the best course of action for you.

Uptown Charlotte Dentistry & Orthodontics

Specializing in Invisalign, Composite Bonding, Veneers and Crowns.

We do our best to make it easy for you to get the beautiful smile you deserve! Our office accepts nearly all major insurance plans. Even though dental insurance is a private arrangement between you and your company, we will file your claim, handle all the paperwork, and help you get maximum insurance benefits.

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