What are wisdom teeth and when do they come through?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that most people develop in the back of their mouths, usually in their late teenage years or early twenties. They typically come between the ages of 17 and 25, but some people may not develop them until later in life.
Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to develop, and in some cases, they may not have enough room to fully emerge from the gums. This can cause them to become impacted, which means they are trapped beneath the gums and cannot break through. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, and damage to other teeth and gums.
Many people choose to have their wisdom teeth removed, especially if they are causing problems or are likely to do so in the future. At Granite Belt, we are privileged to have Dr Jun Loh visiting who has a special interest in removing wisdom teeth and has a wealth of experience in performing complex extractions. So if you are wondering if wisdom tooth extraction is right for you, contact us today to find out more.
First Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Might Be Coming In
Some people may not experience any wisdom teeth symptoms when they first start coming in, while others may experience discomfort or pain. Here are some of the first signs of that your wisdom teeth might be coming in:
| Symptom | Description | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Pain in the back of the jaw | Dull ache or sharp pain near the rear molars, sometimes accompanied by gum tenderness. | Pressure from wisdom teeth pushing through gum tissue. Could also mimic TMJ pain or sinus issues. |
| Swollen or tender gums | Red, swollen, or sensitive gums near the back of the mouth; may include small pimples or cysts. | Gum tissue being stretched as teeth emerge. May cause pain when eating or brushing. |
| Crowding of other teeth | Teeth begin shifting or overlapping due to lack of space in the jaw. | Wisdom teeth are pushing against nearby teeth, affecting alignment and increasing decay risk. |
| Difficulty opening the mouth | Stiffness or limited jaw movement, often with discomfort while speaking, eating, or yawning. | Tension in the jaw caused by pressure from erupting wisdom teeth. |
| Headaches or earaches | Dull or sharp pain in the temples, behind the eyes, or near the ears. | Referred pain from jaw pressure. Can feel like a tension headache or be mistaken for ear infections. |
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be a sign that your wisdom teeth are starting to come through. The best way to know for sure is to book a dental assessment. At Granite Belt Dental, we’ll examine your mouth and take X-rays to see if removal is needed, or if your wisdom teeth can stay safely in place.
Signs you need to get your wisdom teeth removed
It’s important to note that not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. However, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to see a dentist for an evaluation. They will be able to determine if your wisdom teeth are causing problems and whether or not they need to be removed. In some cases, it may be recommended to remove wisdom teeth even if they are not currently causing problems, but are likely to do so in the future.
Should I remove my wisdom teeth if they don’t hurt?
It depends on the individual case and the recommendation of your dentist. In some cases, wisdom teeth that are not causing pain or other symptoms may not need to be removed. However, if they are impacting the alignment of other teeth or if there is a risk of infection or decay, it may be recommended to remove them. It is best to consult with a dental professional for personalised advice.
At Granite Belt Dental, we offer a wide range of treatments to cater for all your dental needs. Our team of experienced dentists in Warwick and Stanthorpe provides personalised care to ensure you receive the highest quality dental treatment. Whether you need routine check-ups, fillings, or more advanced procedures, we are here to help you maintain optimal oral health. If you’re experiencing wisdom tooth pain or are concerned about your wisdom teeth, book an appointment. Our dentists are able to diagnose the problem and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan to alleviate your pain and prevent further complications.
