Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of adult teeth to develop. They typically emerge between ages 17 and 25. Positioned at the back of the mouth, behind the second molars, many people have four, though some have fewer or none.
Late Wisdom Tooth Eruption: Is It Possible?
Wisdom teeth can erupt or cause problems at age 40 or later. Though less common in adulthood, delayed emergence can occur due to insufficient jaw space. The human jaw has evolved to be smaller, often leaving inadequate room for these molars.
Wisdom teeth can also remain impacted, blocked by other teeth, bone, or soft tissue, preventing full eruption. Impaction can be partial, with some tooth visible, or full, remaining entirely beneath the gums. Over time, shifts in other teeth or changes in gum and bone density can allow a previously impacted wisdom tooth to emerge or cause issues. Genetic factors and individual variations in dental development also play a role.
Signs and Complications of Late Eruption
When wisdom teeth emerge or cause issues later in life, various signs can indicate a problem. Common symptoms include pain or tenderness in the jaw or gums at the back of the mouth. Swelling and redness of the gum tissue around the emerging tooth are common. Difficulty opening the mouth fully or discomfort when chewing may occur. A persistent bad taste or bad breath can also signal an issue.
Complications from late wisdom tooth eruption can be significant. Pericoronitis, an inflammation and infection of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth, is a frequent problem. This occurs when food particles and bacteria become trapped under the gum flap, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes pus.
Wisdom teeth, especially if partially emerged or impacted, are more susceptible to decay because their location makes them difficult to clean. This decay can extend to neighboring teeth or contribute to gum disease. Cysts can also form around an impacted wisdom tooth, potentially damaging the jawbone, teeth, and nerves if left untreated.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Seek professional dental advice if you experience any wisdom tooth symptoms, regardless of age. A dentist or oral surgeon can accurately diagnose the issue and recommend an appropriate course of action. Dental X-rays provide detailed images of the wisdom teeth’s position, alignment, and any underlying problems. These images help determine if a tooth is impacted or if complications like cysts are present.
Management options vary. If symptoms are mild and temporary, monitoring the tooth’s progress and maintaining oral hygiene, including warm salt water rinses, may be sufficient. Pain relievers can help manage discomfort. However, if there are signs of infection, significant pain, or other complications, extraction may be recommended to prevent further issues and preserve oral health.