Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of permanent teeth to emerge in the mouth. They are located at the very back of the jaw, with one in each corner. These teeth begin to appear during late adolescence or early adulthood.
The Eruption Process
Wisdom teeth begin to emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While the tooth develops within the jawbone around ages 7-10, it breaks through the mouth later. The eruption is not continuous; it happens in stages: initial movement within the jawbone, then breaking through the gumline, and finally settling into position.
Once a wisdom tooth pushes through the gums, full eruption can take several months to a few years. Some individuals experience quick, straightforward eruption, while others have a prolonged or incomplete emergence. In some cases, wisdom teeth may remain dormant for life without ever breaking through the gums.
Factors Influencing Eruption Time
Several factors influence how long wisdom teeth take to grow in and whether they emerge without issues. Genetic predisposition plays a role; if your parents experienced early, late, or complicated eruption, you might have a similar pattern. Jaw size also affects eruption. If there is insufficient space in the jaw for these additional molars, they may become impacted, unable to fully emerge.
The position of other teeth and oral health also influence eruption time. Crowded teeth or dental issues like gum disease can hinder their natural growth path, potentially delaying or partially erupting them. An impacted wisdom tooth might grow at an angle, press against adjacent teeth, or remain partially covered by gum tissue, prolonging the process or preventing full emergence.
Common Signs and Symptoms
As wisdom teeth emerge, individuals may experience various sensations and signs. A common indication is a dull ache or soreness near the back of the jaw. This discomfort can be intermittent at first but may become more frequent as the tooth continues its movement.
Gums around the emerging wisdom tooth can become tender, swollen, or red. Some might notice pressure in the back of their mouth, or small white specks as the tooth’s surface breaks through the gum line. Difficulty opening the mouth fully or discomfort while chewing can also occur if the emerging tooth causes irritation or inflammation.
When Professional Guidance is Needed
While some discomfort is normal during wisdom tooth eruption, certain symptoms indicate professional dental guidance is needed. Severe pain that persists or worsens, significant swelling, or fever could signal an infection or other complications. Signs of infection might also include pus discharge, bad taste, or foul breath.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing are serious symptoms warranting immediate dental attention. If wisdom teeth are impacted or growing in a way that damages adjacent teeth, causes cysts, or persistent cavities, a dentist can assess the situation. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays monitor wisdom teeth development and determine if intervention or removal is necessary to prevent future oral health issues.