If you’ve been feeling a dull ache in the back of your jaw, or if your gums have been a bit sore, your wisdom teeth might be growing in. Most people’s wisdom teeth start to appear between the ages of 17 and 25. However, this is just a guideline, as everyone’s dental development is different.
At Generations Dental, we’re here to help you understand more about your wisdom teeth and what you can expect as you navigate this milestone in your general oral healthcare.
What Are Wisdom Teeth & Why Do You Have Them?
Wisdom teeth are your third and final set of molars, located in the very back of your mouth. Your distant ancestors needed these teeth to chew tough, raw foods like roots and nuts. Your ancestors’ jaws were larger and they had more space for these extra teeth.
Today, most people eat a much softer diet, and human jaws have become smaller over time. Because of this, many people don’t have enough room for their wisdom teeth to grow in properly. This lack of space is often the source of potential problems.
The Typical Age Range for Wisdom Teeth
The Common Timeframe
The late teens and early twenties are the most common years for wisdom teeth to erupt (break through the gums). However, wisdom teeth actually begin to develop much earlier. Your dental team can often spot them on an X-ray years before they begin to grow in.
Variations in Timing
Every person’s body has its own schedule. Some people may notice their wisdom teeth growing in as early as age 15, while others may have to wait until their early 20s. It’s also completely normal for some people to never develop wisdom teeth at all.
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth May Appear Soon
As your wisdom teeth move into position, you might notice a few changes. Pay attention to how the back of your mouth looks and feels, as persistent pain could be a sign of a problem. Common indicators include:
- Pain, pressure, or a dull ache in your back jaw
- Gums that look swollen, red, or feel tender to the touch
- Headaches or earaches that don’t have another clear cause
Common Reasons for Wisdom Tooth Removal
When your wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow in properly, this can lead to various oral health issues. In such cases, your dentist might recommend removing the tooth to prevent future complications.
An impacted tooth—one that is stuck beneath your gum line—can put pressure on your other teeth, causing them to shift or become crowded. This can cause pain and/or damage to the roots of the affected teeth.
If your wisdom teeth only partially erupt, they can be difficult to clean properly. Food and bacteria can get trapped, which increases your risk of gum inflammation or infection. Keeping the area healthy is key to avoiding discomfort.
Your Next Steps for Healthy Wisdom Teeth
At-Home Care & Observation
If you’re feeling mild soreness from an erupting wisdom tooth, good home care can help. Gently brush around the area to keep it clean of food particles. You can also try a warm salt water rinse to soothe tender gums.
When to See Your Dentist
If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth, scheduling an evaluation is a good next step. As your dentist in Grande Prairie, AB, we can take X-rays to assess the position of your teeth and check how they’re developing beneath the gums.
From there, we can help you create a plan to monitor your wisdom teeth and maintain your long-term oral health.
Protect Your Smile
Dental and oral health is a gift that will be with you your whole life. If you have questions about your wisdom teeth or are ready for a checkup, contact the Generations Dental team to schedule your appointment.
