Wisdom teeth have a reputation for showing up late and stirring up problems. For many people, these back molars never get the chance to grow in normally. Instead, they stay trapped under the gum or grow at odd angles. This is what dentists call “impacted wisdom teeth.” While some lucky patients never have issues, others experience pain, swelling, and even infections.

At Vartanian Dental Group, we know the thought of wisdom tooth surgery isn’t exactly exciting. But understanding what’s happening in your mouth makes the process far less intimidating. Let’s explore what impacted wisdom teeth are, why they matter, and how to know if it’s time to act.

Is it really necessary to remove impacted wisdom teeth?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the truth is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Some patients never experience problems with their wisdom teeth, while others run into pain and complications that make removal the healthier choice. The short answer is: not always, but when these teeth are creating trouble, removing them often prevents much bigger issues down the road.

For certain people, impacted wisdom teeth remain completely silent. They sit quietly under the gum or bone, never pushing against other teeth or causing irritation. In these situations, your dentist may recommend simply monitoring them with regular checkups and X-rays. If the tooth is stable and isn’t threatening nearby teeth or bone, there’s no need to rush into surgery.

That said, impacted wisdom teeth are notorious for creating problems when you least expect it. They often lead to:

• Jaw pain and swelling as they push against neighboring teeth or place extra pressure on the jawbone.
• Infections when food and bacteria become trapped under the gum, creating a pocket that’s nearly impossible to keep clean.
• Damage to nearby teeth if the wisdom tooth presses against roots or enamel, weakening the healthy teeth you rely on every day.
• Cysts or growths around the impacted tooth, which can quietly erode bone and affect long-term oral health if left unchecked.

Even if you’re not feeling discomfort today, the situation can change quickly. Impacted teeth may stay dormant for years, only to flare up suddenly and painfully. That’s why dentists often take a proactive approach, removing them before they turn into an urgent problem.

The decision ultimately depends on your unique case. If a wisdom tooth is stable, healthy, and unlikely to cause future issues, we may simply keep an eye on it. But if it’s a ticking time bomb, early removal usually saves you from a painful emergency, complicated surgery, or damage that can’t be undone.

How do you know if a wisdom tooth is impacted?

The tricky part about impacted teeth is that you can’t always see them. They often stay hidden beneath the gum or bone, quietly developing out of sight. That’s what makes them so sneaky—by the time you notice something is wrong, the tooth may already be causing damage. Still, your body usually gives some signals when a wisdom tooth isn’t erupting the way it should.

Common signs include:

• Pain at the very back of your mouth, especially when chewing or opening wide. This pain may come and go at first but usually becomes more persistent as the tooth continues pressing against bone or neighboring teeth.
• Swelling or redness in the gums near your molars, which may feel tender to the touch or look puffy in the mirror.
• Stiffness or soreness in your jaw, sometimes extending into the ear or creating tension headaches.
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste that lingers, caused by food and bacteria getting trapped around a partially erupted tooth.

For some patients, these symptoms show up suddenly, while for others they build slowly over time. Infections around wisdom teeth, known as pericoronitis, are particularly common and can cause severe pain, swelling, and even difficulty opening your mouth.

The tricky part is that not everyone experiences clear warning signs. Sometimes impacted wisdom teeth remain quiet until they’ve already begun affecting the alignment of your other teeth, or until decay develops in a hard-to-clean area. That’s why relying only on pain or visible swelling isn’t a good strategy.

Dentists use X-rays to detect whether a wisdom tooth is impacted long before symptoms appear. These images show the exact angle and position of the tooth, whether it’s pressing against roots, and if there’s any sign of bone loss or cyst formation. Think of those checkups as preventive maintenance, like having your car inspected before a long road trip. It’s far better to spot potential issues early than to wait until you’re in pain and facing an urgent procedure.

In short, while your mouth may give you hints, the most reliable way to know if a wisdom tooth is impacted is through a dental exam and X-rays. That way, you can make an informed decision about whether to leave the tooth alone or take action before problems escalate.

Are impacted wisdom teeth dangerous?

When ignored, impacted wisdom teeth can create a domino effect of dental problems. Some are uncomfortable, others are serious.

• Infections: An impacted tooth partially poking through the gum creates the perfect pocket for bacteria. This often leads to painful infections that can spread.
• Crowding and shifting: If you had braces in the past, impacted wisdom teeth can push your carefully aligned teeth out of place.
• Tooth decay and gum disease: Impacted teeth are difficult to clean, leaving surrounding areas vulnerable to decay and periodontal issues.
• Jaw problems: In rare cases, untreated cysts can damage bone tissue and nerves.

So yes, impacted wisdom teeth can be dangerous if left untreated. That’s why dentists often take a proactive approach. By removing or monitoring them at the right time, you prevent unnecessary complications down the road.

What to expect if you need treatment

If your wisdom teeth need removal, here’s what the process usually looks like:

1. Consultation and X-rays to plan the procedure.
2. Anesthesia options to keep you comfortable.
3. Surgical removal of the tooth, done in a precise and careful way.
4. Recovery period where you’ll follow simple steps like resting, using ice packs, and sticking to soft foods.

Most patients are surprised at how smoothly the process goes and how quickly they recover with proper aftercare.

Taking action before problems start

The best time to evaluate wisdom teeth is usually in your late teens or early twenties, when the roots are not yet fully formed. At this stage, removal tends to be easier, recovery quicker, and risks lower.

Still, adults of all ages can benefit from evaluation. Even if your wisdom teeth have been quiet until now, circumstances can change. Regular dental visits are the best way to ensure you stay ahead of problems.

Schedule your wisdom teeth evaluation today

If you’ve been dealing with pain at the back of your mouth, swelling in your gums, or you just want peace of mind about your wisdom teeth, now is the time to schedule an appointment. At Vartanian Dental Group, we’ll help you understand what’s going on and recommend the best next steps for your comfort and long-term dental health.

Call us today to book your consultation and keep your smile healthy.