Wisdom teeth, technically known as third molars, are the last four permanent teeth to develop. They are positioned at the very back of the mouth, behind the second molars. Because space is often limited, their emergence is frequently associated with changes in the mouth that can be seen and felt. Recognizing the visual signs of these molars beginning their journey is the first step in addressing any potential issues.
When Wisdom Teeth Begin to Emerge
The process of wisdom teeth eruption typically begins during the late teenage years, spanning the ages of 17 to 25. This timeline is flexible, and the initial movement of the tooth within the jawbone can start earlier. Before any part of the tooth is visible, the process may be signaled by a subtle, deep pressure or a dull ache felt at the back of the jaw.
This pre-visual sensation indicates that the tooth is actively pushing against the surrounding bone and gum tissue. The progression is rarely rapid, often unfolding over many months or even a few years as the crown of the third molar slowly makes its way toward the surface.
Visual Changes in the Back of the Mouth
The most direct visual indicator of an emerging wisdom tooth is the appearance of the gums behind the second molar. As the tooth crown moves upward, it creates localized inflammation, causing the gum tissue to appear visibly redder and slightly puffy compared to the surrounding pink tissue. This irritation may look like a small, raised mound or a slight swelling.
When the tooth finally breaks through the gum line, it presents as a small, white cusp or a sliver of the tooth’s surface. This initial partial eruption can leave a small, sometimes ragged, opening in the gum tissue. This opening can become a site for food and bacteria to accumulate, leading to inflammation called pericoronitis, which visually manifests as increased swelling and redness around the partially emerged tooth.
Beyond the immediate gum area, the movement of the tooth can cause noticeable external swelling. The cheek or the angle of the jaw near the eruption site may appear subtly fuller or slightly distended. Furthermore, changing bite dynamics can lead to small, linear indentations or bite marks on the inside lining of the cheek, caused by the tissue being pressed against the emerging tooth.
How Tooth Positioning Affects Appearance
The visual presentation of an emerging wisdom tooth is highly dependent on its underlying angle, or impaction status. When a tooth is aligned vertically, growing straight up, the visible change is usually minimal, consisting mostly of gum swelling as it pushes through the tissue.
In contrast, an angular impaction, such as a mesial impaction angled forward toward the adjacent molar, often creates more pronounced visual symptoms. The force of the tooth pushing into the second molar, rather than just the gum, can lead to more significant inflammation and swelling in the cheek and jaw area. In severe cases, like a horizontal impaction where the tooth is lying completely on its side, the outward visual signs may include substantial jaw distortion due to the pressure on the bone and adjacent structures.
When complications occur, the appearance can shift from simple redness and swelling to signs of infection. An infection causes the tissue to look darker red or purplish, and there may be localized swelling that feels warm to the touch. The presence of pus, appearing as a yellowish discharge, or a persistent foul odor and taste, indicates the eruption site has developed an abscess or significant infection, requiring prompt professional attention.