Wisdom teeth are the molars that typically erupt between the ages of 18 and 25, located at the very back of the upper and lower jaws. The eruption process of these teeth is often uncomfortable or painful.
Most individuals have four wisdom teeth, one in each quadrant of the mouth. Although known as “20-year molars,” they do not always erupt at age 20. The timing varies greatly from person to person. Some people may have fewer than four wisdom teeth, while others may never develop them at all.
As wisdom teeth try to find space to erupt, they may cause pain, pressure, and discomfort. Due to modern diets and evolutionary jaw size reduction, many people no longer have enough space in their jaws for these teeth to emerge properly.
Common symptoms include:
Wisdom teeth can become impacted when there is not enough space in the jaw or when they are blocked by gum tissue or bone. Impacted teeth can cause:
Partially erupted (semi-impacted) wisdom teeth are often the most problematic. Because they cannot fully emerge, they press against adjacent teeth, causing pressure and misalignment. Food debris can get trapped under the gum flap covering the tooth, creating an ideal environment for bacteria, decay, and infection.
Wisdom teeth may also cause crowding, especially in the front teeth, by pushing other teeth forward.
Another risk is cyst formation. An impacted tooth may develop a fluid-filled sac that can grow into a cyst. In severe cases, it may damage the jawbone, nerves, and neighboring teeth. Rarely, cysts can turn into tumors, requiring surgical intervention.
Rinsing with warm saltwater or diluted vinegar water may offer temporary relief. However, these are only short-term solutions. A dentist should be consulted promptly to diagnose and treat the underlying issue.
If a wisdom tooth causes pain or infection, it should be evaluated by a specialist. The dentist may prescribe antibiotics and recommend extraction if necessary.
Extraction is performed by a qualified dentist or oral surgeon under local anesthesia. Once the area is numbed, the tooth is removed. Stitches may be placed if needed, and these are typically removed within one week. Pain medication or antibiotics may be prescribed based on the patient’s condition.
Post-extraction discomfort may last 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the complexity of the removal.
You may notice:
These symptoms typically indicate that a wisdom tooth is starting to erupt.
Maintaining proper oral care beginning in childhood greatly reduces dental problems in adulthood. Healthy teeth allow us to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. Remember, many oral diseases stem from inadequate dental care. Regular dental check-ups are essential for lifelong oral health.
Wishing you healthy days filled with beautiful smiles.
Specialist in Oral, Dental, and Maxillofacial Surgery
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