What Are Wisdom Teeth and When Do They Erupt?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars located at the very back of the mouth. There are four in total, and they typically erupt between the ages of 16 and 25. Although commonly called "20-year teeth," they may erupt much later in some individuals.

What Problems Can Wisdom Teeth Cause During Eruption?

Since everyone’s jaw and tooth anatomy is different, wisdom teeth do not always cause problems. However, some individuals may experience symptoms such as:

1. Pain radiating to the ears and jaw
2. Swelling of the gums
3. Limited mouth opening

My Wisdom Teeth Haven’t Erupted. How Do I Know If They Are Impacted?

Your dentist can determine whether your wisdom teeth are present, their position, and whether they are likely to erupt on their own by performing an examination and taking X-rays.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Become Impacted?

Because they are the last teeth to erupt, wisdom teeth may not have enough room in the jaw. They can remain partially or fully trapped beneath gum tissue or bone due to:

1. Jaw size
2. The angle of neighboring teeth
3. Gum thickness
4. Bone structure

Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?

If the wisdom tooth erupts properly, aligns with the opposite tooth, and does not disturb the dental arch, extraction may not be necessary.

However, extraction is recommended in cases such as:

1. Advanced decay
2. Pain in neighboring teeth
3. Bone infection
4. Cyst formation at the root tip

Is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Different From a Regular Tooth Extraction?

For wisdom teeth that are fully visible in the mouth, the procedure is similar to normal tooth extraction.

However, impacted wisdom teeth require surgical extraction, which may involve gum or bone removal.

What Should I Pay Attention to After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

1. Avoid eating until the anesthesia wears off.
2. Apply cold compress (ice) in 5-minute intervals for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
3. Do NOT spit, rinse, or use a straw for the first 24 hours to prevent disturbing the blood clot.
4. Use all prescribed medications as instructed.
5. Avoid very hot, spicy, acidic, and grainy foods.
6. Keep stitches clean and prevent food accumulation if sutures are placed.
7. Avoid excessive lip or tongue movements around the surgical area.
8. Do not smoke or drink alcohol during the healing period.

When Should I Contact My Dentist After Extraction?

It is normal to have mild swelling, slight bleeding, pain that improves with medication, or temporary limited mouth opening.

However, immediately contact your dentist if you experience:

1. Heavy bleeding that does not stop with pressure
2. Swelling that lasts more than a few days
3. Numbness or tingling in the jaw that persists
4. Severe, worsening pain