dental hygiene

When Should Wisdom Teeth Come In?

2 min read

Wisdom teeth usually show up during the late teens or early twenties. For many people, that means somewhere around age 17 to 25. But teeth don’t follow birthdays very closely. Some people notice them earlier. Others don’t see them until their twenties, and some never get wisdom teeth at all.

What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Usually Appear?

The third molars sit right at the back of your mouth. They are the last permanent teeth to develop, which is why they tend to arrive after the rest of your adult teeth have settled in.

What If Wisdom Teeth Don’t Come In?

This is where things get interesting. A wisdom tooth doesn’t have to fully emerge to exist. It can remain trapped under the gum or inside the jaw, which dentists call an impacted wisdom tooth.

Some impacted teeth cause no trouble for years. Others create pressure as they try to move. 

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Coming

You might notice aching right at the back of your mouth. The gum there can feel puffy or irritated, especially while chewing. Sometimes opening your mouth feels slightly uncomfortable.

When Should You See a Dentist?

Don’t wait for serious pain before getting things checked. A dental examination and X-ray can show where your wisdom teeth are sitting and whether they have enough room to come through properly.

• Repeated soreness at the very back of your jaw, especially if it keeps returning.

• Swelling around a tooth that’s only partly visible. That little flap of gum can trap food, which gets annoying fast.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?

No. And this is one dental myth I’d happily retire.

The funny thing about wisdom teeth is how much attention they get before they’ve even arrived. Sometimes they come in quietly and behave perfectly well. Sometimes they decide to make themselves known at the worst possible dinner.

Disclaimer

The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.

Read our Full Disclaimer.
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