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5 Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually emerge in one’s late teens or early twenties. While some people have no issues, many end up dealing with discomfort or complications from impacted wisdom teeth. 

Not sure if yours are impacted? Our Point Pleasant dentist breaks down the most common signs of impacted wisdom teeth below! 


What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

An impacted wisdom tooth is a tooth that fails to fully emerge because there isn’t enough space or it’s growing at the wrong angle. When this happens, the tooth can become trapped under the gums and cause potential problems. 


Types of Impaction

  • Soft Tissue Impaction: The tooth has partially emerged, but it’s still covered by gum tissue, which can trap food and bacteria and lead to infection. 
  • Hard Tissue Impaction: The tooth is completely stuck in the jawbone and never breaks through. In most cases, surgery is needed to remove it. 
  • Partial Eruption: The tooth starts to break through but doesn’t fully come in, which can cause similar issues to soft tissue impaction.

Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth


  1. Pain and Discomfort

    2. If you’re feeling pain in the back of your mouth, jaw, or even your head, your wisdom teeth could be the cause. The pain can range from mild to severe and may worsen over time.


  2. Swollen Gums

    3. Red, swollen, or tender gums, especially near your wisdom teeth, could also mean infection or impaction. In these cases, you might notice some bleeding when brushing or flossing.


  3. Bad Breath

    4. A constant bad taste or lingering bad breath could indicate that bacteria and food are trapped around an impacted tooth.


  4. Jaw Stiffness

    5. Difficulty opening your mouth all the way or feeling stiffness in your jaw could be due to pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth. This would also make it uncomfortable to eat and speak.


  5. Other Symptoms

    6. Earaches and headaches can sometimes be linked to impacted wisdom teeth, too. If you experience this or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s probably best to check in with your dentist before the problem gets worse.


What Causes Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Impacted wisdom teeth can happen for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Lack of Space: Over time, human jaws have gotten smaller, which has left them with little to no room for extra teeth. As a result, this can prevent your wisdom teeth from properly erupting. 
  • Misalignment: As mentioned above, sometimes wisdom teeth grow in sideways or at odd angles; this causes them to push against other teeth or get stuck altogether.  
  • Genetics: The size and shape of your jaw are inherited, so if your family has a history of impacted wisdom teeth, you might, too. 
  • Early Loss of Baby Teeth: Losing baby teeth too early can affect how adult teeth grow and increase the chances of impaction. 

Wisdom Teeth FAQs


How Are Wisdom Teeth Diagnosed?

Dentists use a combination of a physical exam and dental X-rays to check the position of your wisdom teeth and spot any potential problems. 


Can Impacted Wisdom Teeth Go Away on Their Own?

Unfortunately, no, impacted wisdom teeth don’t fix themselves. You might experience temporary relief, but the underlying issue won’t go away on its own. If you’re noticing signs of impaction, it’s best to see a dentist sooner rather than later.


What Does Impacted Wisdom Tooth Pain Feel Like?

The pain from impacted wisdom teeth isn’t the same for everyone. It can start as a mild ache and gradually get worse. For example, you might notice: 

  • Pain Around the Tooth: Discomfort right where the impacted tooth is. 
  • Pain That Spreads: It can extend to your jaw, neck, or even your ears. 
  • Throbbing Sensation: A constant, pulsing pain that makes daily activities harder.

When Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

If you’re dealing with persistent pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain relievers, it might be time to see your dentist. Signs of infection, like swelling, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth, are also signs that an extraction may be necessary to prevent complications down the road.


Can Wisdom Teeth Impactions Cause Other Dental Issues?

Yes, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cavities, gum infections, and even damage to nearby teeth. Regular check-ups with your dentist can help you catch these issues early.


Have Questions About Your Wisdom Teeth? Contact Us!

Are you experiencing signs of an impacted wisdom tooth? Don’t hesitate to contact Coastal Dental Group today! Our team provides tooth extractions in Point Pleasant, NJ, and is here to help with all your dental needs. 

Contact us or call 732-714-1030 to schedule an appointment! 

 About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!