Wisdom teeth usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. However, the process can be unpredictable and vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience signs such as discomfort and pain during the eruption, while others may not even realize that their wisdom teeth are coming in. There are also some who will never get their wisdom teeth.
Indeed, there’s a lot of mystery with regard to the way wisdom teeth come in. As such, it may be necessary for you to be aware of what to look for during wisdom teeth eruption in order to prevent potential problems and ensure proper oral health.
Signs and symptoms of wisdom teeth coming in
As the wisdom teeth begin to emerge, there are several signs that may indicate their arrival, including:
- Pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth – The type of pain experienced around the area where the third molars are erupting could be mild or severe, and can make it difficult to eat or speak. If the pain is intense and radiating toward the ears or head, it could be due to an abscessed tooth.
- Jaw pain – Your dentist can help you determine whether the localized pain at the jaw area is due to wisdom teeth coming in or a symptom of TMJ
- Swelling and inflammation in the gums around the emerging teeth – The gums may appear red, tender, and swollen.
- Pressure or throbbing in your gums in the area where the wisdom teeth are erupting
- Changes in bite and alignment – This may be caused due to wisdom teeth pushing against the other teeth when they come in at an angle, resulting crowding or shifting.
- Headaches or earaches due to the wisdom teeth forcing their way when there isn’t enough space to accommodate them. This can also lead to pain in your mouth and others areas – referred pain.
These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from person to person, but if you experience any of them, it’s essential to seek dental advice to ensure proper management and treatment.
Are these symptoms related to wisdom teeth or other dental issues?
These signs and symptoms of wisdom teeth coming in can also be caused by other issues such as gum infections, dental decay, and other types of dental problems. Therefore, it can be difficult to determine with certainty that they are related to the eruption of your third molars.
One way to confirm the cause of the symptoms is to visit a dentist or other dental professional. During a consultation, they can examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine if the wisdom teeth are responsible for the pain and discomfort. Additionally, if the symptoms are accompanied by swelling in the gums at the back of the mouth, it is likely that they are related to the wisdom teeth.
It is also important to note that not all wisdom teeth require removal, and a dental professional can provide the best advice on whether or not extraction is necessary.
Alleviating discomfort during wisdom teeth eruption
Wisdom teeth eruption can be a painful and uncomfortable experience for many individuals. Fortunately, there are several ways to alleviate the discomfort during this time, including:
A. Home remedies:
There are several home remedies that can help reduce pain and swelling during wisdom teeth eruption. One effective method is to rinse the mouth with warm saltwater several times a day. The saltwater can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also help reduce swelling and discomfort. Additionally, chewing on a piece of garlic or applying clove oil to the area can help alleviate pain.
B. Over-the-counter pain relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling during wisdom teeth eruption. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging and avoid taking too much, as this can cause side effects.
C. Consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon
If home remedies and over-the-counter pain relievers are not providing relief, it’s important to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon. They may recommend stronger pain medication or suggest removing the wisdom teeth if they are causing significant discomfort or are at risk of leading to future dental problems.
Final thoughts
In addition to the different ways of managing pain and discomfort discussed above, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene during wisdom teeth eruption. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding hard or crunchy foods that can irritate the affected area.
By following these tips, individuals can alleviate discomfort and promote healing during wisdom teeth eruption, and ultimately get to enjoy the benefits of keeping your wisdom teeth.
Lastly, make sure to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon if you experience any persistent pain or discomfort during the eruption process.
FAQs
What are the first signs that my wisdom teeth are coming in?
The first signs of wisdom teeth eruption are typically pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth, swelling and inflammation of the gums, and changes in bite and alignment.
How long does it typically take for wisdom teeth to fully emerge after the first signs?
The timeline for wisdom teeth eruption varies from person to person, but it usually takes several months from the first signs until the teeth are fully emerged. Some people may experience faster or slower eruption times, and in some cases, the teeth may not fully emerge at all.
Can wisdom teeth cause headaches and ear pain during their eruption?
Wisdom teeth eruption can cause headaches and ear pain in some cases. This is because the wisdom teeth can push against the surrounding teeth and cause discomfort in the jaw, which can radiate to the head and ears. It’s important to note, however, that headaches and ear pain can also be caused by other factors such as sinus infections or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. If you’re experiencing persistent headaches or ear pain, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.
Is it normal to experience bleeding during wisdom teeth eruption?
Some bleeding is normal during wisdom teeth eruption, but if it is excessive or persists for an extended period of time, you should consult a dentist or oral surgeon.
What can I do to alleviate discomfort during wisdom teeth eruption?
Home remedies such as saltwater rinses, cold compresses, and clove oil can help alleviate discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also be effective.
How do I know if my symptoms are related to wisdom teeth or another issue?
It is best to consult a dentist or oral surgeon to determine if your symptoms are related to wisdom teeth or another issue. They may take X-rays or perform a visual examination to make a diagnosis.
