Healthy Smiles Premier Dental
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people experience little to no discomfort, for many, the eruption of wisdom teeth can bring about noticeable changes in the mouth. Recognizing the signs early can help you seek dental care early and prevent further complications.
Pain or Tenderness
One of the most common symptoms of erupting wisdom teeth is pain or tenderness at the back of your mouth. This discomfort may be constant or occur only when chewing. The gums around the area may experience swellin, making it harder to clean thoroughly. In some cases, you may even notice redness or slight bleeding when brushing.
Crowding of Teeth
Another indicator is crowding or shifting of your teeth. As wisdom teeth push their way through, they can place pressure on existing teeth, leading to misalignment. If you suddenly notice your once-straight teeth beginning to shift, a wisdom tooth could be the cause.
Stiffness and Headaches
Jaw stiffness and headaches are also associated with wisdom tooth eruption. This happens because the teeth often don’t have enough space to fully come in, which can result in partial eruption, known as impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth may also create small flaps of gum tissue where food and bacteria can get trapped, increasing the risk of infection.
Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth may develop if bacteria collect around a partially erupted tooth. This could indicate an infection that requires prompt dental treatment to ensure gum disease does not progress.
If you suspect your wisdom tooth is erupting, scheduling an exam with your dentist is essential. Through X-rays and an evaluation, your dentist can determine whether your wisdom teeth are coming in properly or if removal is the safer option. Early detection can prevent pain, infection, and alignment issues down the road.