When do wisdom teeth come in? Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the back of your mouth. They typically begin to emerge between the ages of 17 and 21. However, the timing can vary widely from person to person. Some people may experience early eruption as young as 15, while others may not see them emerge until their late 20s or even early 30s. Genetic factors play a significant role in determining the timing of wisdom tooth eruption.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to have four wisdom teeth. Some people may have fewer, while others may have none at all. The presence or absence of wisdom teeth is largely determined by genetics. Certain populations, such as those of Asian descent, are more likely to have fewer or no wisdom teeth. Conversely, individuals of European descent tend to have a higher prevalence of wisdom teeth.
The eruption of wisdom teeth can be a gradual process. It may take several months or even years for a wisdom tooth to fully emerge. During this time, you may experience various symptoms, including:
As the wisdom tooth pushes through the gumline, it can cause discomfort and inflammation. In some cases, the tooth may become partially impacted, meaning it only partially erupts through the gumline. This can create a small pocket where bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection.
While many people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may experience complications. One of the most common problems is wisdom tooth infection. This can occur when a wisdom tooth becomes partially impacted, meaning it only partially erupts through the gumline. Bacteria can then accumulate around the tooth, leading to infection.
If left untreated, a wisdom tooth infection can lead to more serious complications, such as abscess formation, damage to nearby teeth, and even the spread of infection to other parts of the body. Therefore, it’s important to seek prompt dental care if you suspect a wisdom tooth infection.
If you suspect a wisdom tooth infection, watch for these signs:
In addition to these symptoms, you may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, difficulty chewing, and a general feeling of malaise.
Most people have four wisdom teeth, two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. However, as mentioned earlier, the number of wisdom teeth can vary from person to person. Some people may have fewer than four wisdom teeth, while others may have more. The exact number of wisdom teeth is determined by genetic factors.
The growth of wisdom teeth can be a slow and sometimes painful process. The exact timeline for the eruption of a wisdom tooth can vary, but it typically takes several months. During this time, you may experience discomfort and swelling as the tooth pushes through the gum tissue.
As the wisdom tooth emerges, it may put pressure on the surrounding teeth, causing crowding and misalignment. This can lead to a variety of dental problems, including difficulty chewing, jaw pain, and an increased risk of gum disease.
As mentioned earlier, the eruption of a wisdom tooth can take several months. However, the exact timeline can vary depending on individual factors. Factors such as the position of the tooth, the density of the bone surrounding the tooth, and individual variations in growth and development can all influence the rate of eruption.
In some cases, a wisdom tooth may become impacted, meaning it is unable to fully erupt through the gumline. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause a variety of problems, including pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth.
The pain associated with wisdom tooth growth can vary in severity and duration. In some cases, the pain may be mild and short-lived. However, for others, the pain may be more severe and persistent.
Remember: Early intervention is key to preventing complications associated with wisdom teeth. If you have any concerns about your wisdom teeth, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentists.
If you’re experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth, it may be necessary to consider wisdom tooth removal. At Lemont Dental Clinic / Gentle Touch Dentistry, we offer a wide range of dental services, including wisdom tooth extraction. Our experienced dentists can assess your individual situation and recommend the best course of action.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you maintain optimal oral health.