6 Symptoms of an Impacted Wisdom Tooth You Shouldn’t Ignore

Wisdom teeth (third molars) typically erupt between ages 17 and 25.
But in many people, there simply isn’t enough space in the jaw for proper eruption.

When a wisdom tooth becomes partially or fully trapped beneath the gum or bone, it is called an impacted wisdom tooth.

Impaction can remain silent for years — or it can trigger infection, inflammation, and significant discomfort.

Here are six common symptoms to watch for.

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1. Persistent Pain in the Back of the Mouth

The most common early sign is dull or throbbing pain near the back molars.

Pain may:

• Radiate to the ear

• Extend toward the jaw joint

• Worsen when chewing

In some cases, discomfort fluctuates — improving briefly before returning.

Pain that lasts more than a few days should be evaluated.

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2. Swollen or Red Gums Around the Tooth

When a wisdom tooth partially erupts, a small gum flap may form over it.
Food and bacteria can become trapped beneath this tissue.

This condition, called pericoronitis, can cause:

• Gum swelling

• Tenderness

• Bleeding when brushing

• Bad breath

Untreated infection can spread to surrounding tissues.

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3. Jaw Stiffness or Difficulty Opening the Mouth

Inflammation in the area can extend to surrounding muscles.

You may notice:

• Limited mouth opening

• Pain while chewing

• Tightness near the jaw hinge

Severe cases may involve facial swelling.

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4. Headaches or Ear Pain

Because the jaw shares nerve pathways with the ear and temple region, impacted wisdom teeth can cause referred pain.

Symptoms may mimic:

• TMJ disorder

• Ear infection

• Tension headaches

Dental imaging helps clarify the source.

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5. Bad Taste or Foul Odor

Infection around an impacted tooth may produce pus.

Signs include:

• Persistent unpleasant taste

• Halitosis

• Fluid discharge from gum tissue

This indicates bacterial involvement and requires prompt dental care.

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6. Swelling in the Face or Lymph Nodes

Advanced infection can spread beyond the gum.

Possible signs:

• Visible facial swelling

• Tender lymph nodes under the jaw

• Fever

This is a more serious situation and should be treated urgently.

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Why Impacted Wisdom Teeth Cause Problems

Impaction may occur because:

• The jaw is too small

• The tooth grows sideways

• It remains trapped in bone

• It partially erupts

Over time, this can lead to:

• Gum infection

• Tooth decay

• Damage to neighboring molars

• Cyst formation (rare but possible)

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When Should You See a Dentist?

Immediate evaluation is needed if you experience:

• Severe swelling

• Fever

• Difficulty swallowing

• Increasing pain

Even mild recurring discomfort warrants a dental X-ray to assess positioning.

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Treatment Options

Management depends on severity:

• Irrigation and antibiotics for mild infection

• Pain management

• Surgical extraction (most common long-term solution)

Wisdom tooth removal is a routine oral surgery procedure, often performed under local or sedation anesthesia.

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Final Perspective

Not every wisdom tooth requires removal.

However, symptomatic impaction rarely resolves permanently on its own.

Early evaluation prevents complications, reduces infection risk, and protects surrounding teeth.

Ignoring the signs may turn a manageable issue into a painful emergency.

Dental assessment provides clarity — and peace of mind.