Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Coming In

• August 28, 2024
• Dr. Catherine-Anne Walsh

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. For many, this process can be accompanied by discomfort and a variety of symptoms.

Understanding these signs and symptoms can help you prepare for their arrival and seek appropriate dental care.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the first signs of wisdom teeth coming in, including how to identify the signs, when to consider removal, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located at the back of the mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people may develop them earlier or later.

Wisdom teeth can be valuable assets to the mouth when healthy and properly aligned, but they often may require removal due to misalignment or other dental problems.

How Do I Know When My Wisdom Teeth Are Coming Through?

Recognising the first signs of wisdom teeth coming in can help you manage discomfort and prevent complications. Here are some common indicators:

• Jaw Pain: One of the first signs of wisdom teeth coming in is discomfort or pain in the back of the jaw. This can be due to the pressure the emerging tooth exerts on surrounding teeth and tissues.
• Swollen Gums: As wisdom teeth begin to push through the gum line, you may notice swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area.
• Gum Irritation: The area around the emerging tooth can become irritated, making it sensitive to touch and causing difficulty in chewing.
• Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are prone to decay because they are located at the back of the mouth, making them harder to clean.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Sometimes, wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge properly and become trapped under the gum line, leading to pain and swelling.

Signs and symptoms include persistent pain, bad breath and red and swollen gums.

Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Coming In

Understanding the various signs and symptoms can help you determine if your wisdom teeth are coming in:

• Persistent Pain or Discomfort: Continuous pain or a dull ache in the back of your mouth can indicate that your wisdom teeth are coming through.This pain is often due to the pressure of the wisdom tooth eruption and can be exacerbated when the wisdom tooth pushes against other teeth.
• Red and Swollen Gums: Inflammation around the emerging tooth is a common sign. The gums may become tender, swollen, and even bleed, especially when brushing or flossing. This is due to the gum tissue being disrupted by the new teeth.
• Bad Breath: Difficulty in cleaning the area around a new wisdom tooth can lead to bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth.Food particles and bacteria can get trapped around the partially erupted wisdom tooth, contributing to these issues.
• Difficulty Opening Your Mouth: Swelling and pain may make it hard to open your mouth fully. This can affect eating and speaking, and is often accompanied by a feeling of tightness in the jaw.
• Headaches: The pressure from emerging wisdom teeth can sometimes cause headaches.This is particularly common if the wisdom teeth are impacted, as they push against nerves and other structures in the jaw.
• Tooth Sensitivity: As your wisdom teeth come in, you might experience increased sensitivity in the surrounding teeth. This is due to the pressure and movement of the new teeth affecting the nearby teeth.

You may need your wisdom teeth removed if you have certain issues such as impacted teeth, crowded teeth, tooth decay and gum disease.

Removing Wisdom Teeth

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed, but there are certain situations where wisdom teeth removal is necessary:

• Impacted Teeth: If wisdom teeth are trapped in the jawbone or gum tissue, they may cause pain, infection, and other dental problems.
• Crowded Teeth: Emerging wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment, leading to overcrowding.
• Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are prone to cavities because they are hard to reach with a toothbrush.
• Gum Disease: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can lead to gum disease due to trapped food and bacteria.
• Wisdom Teeth Pain: Persistent pain caused by emerging or impacted wisdom teeth often necessitates removal.
• Tender or Bleeding Gums: Swollen, bleeding or tender gums around the wisdom teeth may indicate the need for extraction.
• Nearby Teeth Damage: Wisdom teeth can cause damage to nearby teeth, increasing the likelihood of needing to remove wisdom teeth.
• Adult Teeth Health: Ensuring the health of your adult teeth may involve removing problematic wisdom teeth.

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FAQs

How do I know if my wisdom teeth are coming in?

You may experience jaw pain, swollen gums, and difficulty chewing as the first signs of wisdom teeth coming in. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and address any issues early. Dental professionals at The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street can provide personalised advice to ensure optimal oral health during this period.

What are the first signs of wisdom teeth coming in?

Initial signs of wisdom teeth coming in include gum irritation, swelling, and discomfort at the back of the mouth. These symptoms often indicate that the last adult teeth are beginning to emerge. It’s important to consult with a dentist to assess the situation and determine if any preventive measures are needed.

When should I consider wisdom tooth extraction?

Wisdom tooth extraction should be considered if you have an impacted wisdom tooth, severe pain, or dental problems such as cavities or gum disease. Extracting problematic wisdom teeth can prevent damage to existing teeth and maintain overall oral health. Consulting with dental professionals will help you decide the best course of action.

Can wisdom teeth cause headaches?

Yes, the pressure from emerging wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to headaches. This is often due to the pressure exerted on surrounding tissues and nerves. If you experience frequent headaches, it may be a sign that your wisdom teeth are coming in, and you should seek advice from your dentist.

How can I maintain good oral hygiene with wisdom teeth?

Maintaining good oral hygiene with wisdom teeth involves regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to keep the area clean. It’s also important to schedule regular dental visits to monitor the health of your wisdom teeth and surrounding areas. Dental professionals can provide guidance on managing your oral health as your wisdom teeth emerge.

General Information Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this site is general in nature and may not reflect current medical developments or research. Your reliance on any information provided by this site is solely at your own risk.