Wisdom Tooth Pain After 40

Wisdom, whether in thought or in teeth, tends to grow with age — both moving forward in their own time and way.” Patients often ask why they should worry about issues that might arise 40 years down the line, especially when they are not experiencing any problems now. However, the saying ‘prevention is better than cure’ highlights the importance of addressing potential concerns early, especially those that can become more troublesome after your 40s. Let’s highlight the factors that could become more problematic as you approach your 40s and beyond.

Wisdom tooth extraction is a specialized surgical procedure to remove one or more third molars— the last set of adult teeth located at the back of the mouth.

When these teeth become impacted, they can lead to severe pain, infection, gum disease, and even damage to nearby teeth or jawbone. Dr. Chirag Chamria, a leading Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon in Mumbai, specializes in painless, advanced, and minimally invasive wisdom tooth removal using cutting-edge technology.

Many patients opt for preventive extraction of asymptomatic wisdom teeth to avoid future complications, as recommended by dental experts. Early removal in the late teens or early 20s ensures a smoother recovery with minimal risks. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, swelling, or difficulty chewing, book a consultation with Dr. Chirag Chamriafor a safe, comfortable, and expert wisdom tooth removal experience in Mumbai.

Why Wisdom Tooth Issues After 40?

1. Tooth Shifting: As you get older, your teeth may shift, which can lead to complications with your wisdom teeth.
2. Gum Changes: With age, changes in gum health are common, which can result in problems around the wisdom teeth.
3. Chronic Health Conditions: Health conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of oral health issues, including complications with wisdom teeth.
4. Neglected Dental Care: Sometimes, wisdom tooth problems arise when dental care has been neglected over time.

We typically only address this issue when pain arises, and the intensity of the pain varies depending on the tooth’s alignment and position.

Impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth, even at age 40, can lead to serious oral issues, including:

1. Pressure on adjacent teeth, causing malocclusion, food buildup, and increased risk of decay and pain.
2. Gum pain, swelling, and infections like abscesses and cysts.
3. Jaw cysts that can damage teeth, nerves, and the jawbone.
4. Inflammation in the gums, leading to discomfort while speaking and eating.
5. Nerve compression, resulting in numbness or loss of sensation in the skin, lips, or teeth.
6. Symptom like facial pain and redness around the eyes.

Addressing these issues early can prevent further complications.

Should wisdom teeth be extracted at age 40?

If wisdom teeth are impacted or misaligned and causing symptoms like pain, infection, swollen cheeks, or difficulty opening the jaw, it’s crucial to seek a professional evaluation. Early extraction can help prevent complications such as tooth damage, infections, and nerve issues. It also reduces the risk of more complex procedures later on. Consulting with a dentist allows for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, ultimately safeguarding your long-term oral health.”

This way, it emphasises not just the immediate benefits of early extraction but also the importance of proactive care.