Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge in the mouth. They typically appear during the late teen years or early twenties. Most people develop four wisdom teeth, one in each quadrant of the mouth, though some may have fewer, more, or none at all.
Recognizing the Signs
The eruption of wisdom teeth can bring about noticeable changes and sensations. A common indicator is pain or tenderness in the back of the mouth, often near the jawbone. This discomfort may manifest as a dull ache, constant or intermittent, sometimes worsening when chewing.
The gums around the emerging wisdom tooth may also show signs of activity. Swelling, redness, or tenderness of the gum tissue in that area are frequent observations. Some individuals might notice slight bleeding when brushing or a small white speck, which is the tip of the tooth breaking through the gum line.
Beyond localized discomfort, wider symptoms can develop. Difficulty opening the mouth fully or jaw stiffness can occur. This restriction can be attributed to muscle inflammation or pressure from the erupting tooth. Headaches are also reported, potentially resulting from pressure exerted by the emerging teeth.
An unpleasant taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath can signal an issue. This often points to bacteria accumulating around a partially erupted tooth, indicating a potential infection.
Potential Complications
When wisdom teeth attempt to emerge, various problems can arise due to insufficient space in the jaw. A common issue is impaction, where the tooth is blocked from erupting fully into its proper position. This can happen if the tooth grows at an angle or is trapped beneath the gums or jawbone. Impactions can be categorized by their angle (e.g., angled forward, backward, or sideways) or by whether they are covered by gum tissue (soft tissue) or bone (bony).
A frequent complication is pericoronitis, which is the inflammation and infection of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth. This condition occurs when a flap of gum tissue, called an operculum, covers part of the tooth, trapping food particles, plaque, and bacteria underneath. Symptoms of pericoronitis can include pain, swelling, bad breath, and sometimes pus discharge.
The pressure from an erupting wisdom tooth can also lead to crowding or misalignment of adjacent teeth. As the wisdom tooth pushes against the second molar, it can cause the existing teeth to shift, potentially affecting the overall dental alignment. In some instances, this pressure can even damage the root structure of the neighboring tooth.
Although less common, more serious issues can develop, such as the formation of cysts or, rarely, benign tumors around an impacted tooth. These fluid-filled sacs can expand over time, potentially damaging the jawbone, nerves, or adjacent teeth if left unaddressed.
When to Consult a Dentist
Regular dental check-ups are important for monitoring the development of wisdom teeth, even in the absence of symptoms. A dentist can often detect potential issues early through visual examination and X-rays. Panoramic X-rays are particularly useful as they provide a comprehensive view of unerupted teeth and their position within the jawbone.
Prompt consultation with a dentist is advisable if you experience persistent pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth. Severe swelling, difficulty swallowing, or a fever accompanying tooth pain are also signs that warrant immediate professional attention. These symptoms could indicate an infection or other complication that requires timely intervention.
During a dental assessment, the dentist will evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine if there is enough space for them to emerge without causing problems. Based on the diagnosis, the dentist will discuss appropriate next steps. Options can range from continued monitoring if the teeth are emerging without issues, to discussing removal if complications are present or anticipated.