What are the first signs of wisdom teeth coming in?

When do wisdom teeth come in?

In dental terms, wisdom teeth are the third molars, and are the last teeth to come in. Wisdom teeth start erupting between the age of 17 and 25. Exceptions may apply to some people.

How late wisdom teeth can come in varies. There are cases when they do not start emerging until the age of 30 or 40.

How to tell if your wisdom teeth are coming in?

Most of the time, you will be able to feel the wisdom teeth coming in. Occasionally, they are noticeable through pain, swelling and discomfort. The following symptoms are common for wisdom teeth eruption.

Discomfort and pain in the jaw

Symptoms may manifest as swelling, tenderness or pain in the affected area.

Pain in other areas

The pain may also radiate outward. This can lead to disturbances in other areas such as the face or head. In severe cases, the pain may reach your neck and shoulders.

Pain such as headaches, earaches and jaw pain are other symptoms of wisdom teeth eruption . The eruption of wisdom teeth causes pressure on the nerves that can be felt in the jaw, head and ears. In some cases, you may experience extreme pain when chewing or opening your mouth.

Changes in the gums

Gum changes are a common side effect of wisdom teeth coming in. These include swelling, redness, tenderness and irritation. Bleeding gums are also common. The gum tissue can become extremely sensitive and cause an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Displacing of other teeth

The direction of wisdom teeth eruption can displace other teeth causing crowding. This can cause pain and discomfort and affect oral hygiene.

Bad breath

Bad breath occurs because food particles and bacteria get trapped in the crevices around the erupting wisdom teeth especially when the teeth do not come out properly and are impacted. 

The situation can get worse if an infection develops. Some of the early symptoms include fever, headache and fatigue. In some severe cases, there may be pus discharge from the area.

Pictures of wisdom teeth coming in

How to take care of wisdom teeth coming in?

Follow the steps below to take care of your wisdom teeth and avoid complications.

Proper oral hygiene

Make sure you maintain good oral hygiene. This will prevent possible infection or inflammation. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss and use an antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid irritation or damage to the gums.

Change diet

Avoid hard, crunchy, acidic or sweet foods that can irritate the gums. Dentists advise avoiding these types of foods during wisdom teeth eruption. Switch to a soft food diet of mashed potatoes, oatmeal and applesauce as needed.

Apply ice packs

On the same side of the erupting wisdom tooth, place  ice packs or cold compresses on the outer part of the cheek. This will temporarily relieve swelling and discomfort.

Visit your dentist

It is important to see your dentist during wisdom teeth eruption. You should not postpone your visit if you experience severe discomfort or pain. The doctor can examine the condition of your wisdom teeth with an x-ray and will give you a diagnosis and treatment. 

Why do we have wisdom teeth?

In our ancestors, wisdom teeth were important for processing a diet of tough, fibrous plants. Our modern diet and lifestyle have evolved, and so wisdom teeth are no longer necessary.

Does everyone have wisdom teeth?

Not everyone has wisdom teeth. Whether a person develops wisdom teeth depends on the individual’s genetics. Also, for some people, the eruption of wisdom teeth may be delayed.