What are the signs and symptoms of wisdom teeth coming in? The eruption of wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can cause various signs and symptoms. Here are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate wisdom teeth coming in:
Soreness or Discomfort
You may experience soreness or discomfort in the back of your mouth where the wisdom teeth are erupting. This can be due to the pressure exerted by the emerging teeth on the surrounding gum tissue.
Swelling and Redness
The area around the erupting wisdom teeth may become swollen and inflamed. This can result in redness and tenderness in the gums.
Swelling of the Face
Severe cases of wisdom teeth eruption may lead to facial swelling, although this is less common.
Jaw Pain
The pressure from wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain, which may radiate to the ear on the same side. This pain can be intermittent or persistent.
Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
As the wisdom teeth continue to grow, they can make it difficult to fully open your mouth. This limitation in jaw movement is known as trismus.
Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create a space where food particles and bacteria can get trapped, leading to bad breath or a persistent unpleasant taste in your mouth.
Irritation or Ulcers
The emerging wisdom teeth can rub against the cheeks or tongue, causing irritation or the development of ulcers in these areas.
Headaches or Earaches
The pain and pressure caused by erupting wisdom teeth can radiate to the head and ears, leading to headaches or earaches.
Infection
If the area around a partially erupted wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can cause increased pain, swelling, and even difficulty in swallowing.
Crowding or Shifting of Other Teeth
Wisdom teeth can exert pressure on the neighboring teeth, leading to crowding or shifting of the teeth in the mouth. This can cause bite problems or changes in the alignment of your teeth.
Sinus Pain and Congestion
In some cases, upper wisdom teeth can grow close to the sinuses, causing sinus pain, pressure, or congestion.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups and X-rays can help monitor the development of wisdom teeth and detect any potential issues early on.
- Swelling of the Face: Severe cases of wisdom teeth eruption may lead to facial swelling, although this is less common.
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience symptoms when their wisdom teeth come in. In some cases, wisdom teeth can erupt without causing any noticeable signs or discomfort. If you’re experiencing any concerning symptoms or suspect your wisdom teeth are coming in, it’s best to consult with a dentist for an evaluation.
