Reading time: three minutes
Most people do not think about their wisdom teeth until the back of the mouth starts to feel different. You might notice soreness behind your last molars, swelling in the gums, or a dull pressure in the jaw. Sometimes a small piece of tooth becomes visible behind the second molars. These are often the first signs that wisdom teeth are starting to come in.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Signs That Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In
- Signs a Wisdom Tooth May Be Impacted
- Wisdom Teeth Evaluation at Oral Facial & Implant Specialists
- Wisdom Tooth Evaluation in Deer Park, IL
- FAQ
What Are the Signs That Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In
The most common sign that wisdom teeth are coming in is discomfort or pressure behind the last molars. Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, typically begin to erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. As they move through the gums, they can create noticeable changes in the back of the mouth.
Gum Changes
When wisdom teeth begin to emerge, the gum tissue around them may become inflamed. This occurs because the tooth is slowly pushing through the gum surface.
You may notice:
- Red or swollen gums behind the molars
- Tenderness when brushing the back teeth
- A flap of gum tissue partially covering the tooth
- Mild bleeding when brushing
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria under the gum flap. This may lead to irritation or infection if the area is difficult to keep clean.
Jaw Pressure and Pain in the Back of the Mouth
As wisdom teeth develop and move toward the surface, they may create pressure in the jaw. This pressure is often felt near the back molars and can sometimes radiate toward the ear or along the jawline.
Symptoms may include:
- Dull aching in the back of the jaw
- Sensitivity when chewing
- Tightness when opening the mouth
- Mild headaches near the temples
Difficulty Opening the Mouth Fully
When wisdom teeth begin erupting, inflammation around the back of the jaw can make it harder to open the mouth comfortably. This stiffness is sometimes noticeable when chewing, yawning, or brushing the back teeth.
You may notice:
- Tightness when opening the mouth
- Discomfort when chewing
- Stiffness near the jaw joint
Limited opening can occur when swelling develops around a partially erupted wisdom tooth.
Food Getting Trapped Behind the Back Teeth
As wisdom teeth begin to emerge, small spaces may form behind the second molars. These areas are difficult to clean with a toothbrush or floss.
You may notice:
- Food repeatedly getting stuck in the same area
- Increased irritation after eating
- Tender gums behind the last molars
Food and bacteria trapped in this space can irritate the surrounding gum tissue and increase the risk of infection.
A Visible Tooth Edge Behind the Second Molars
In some cases, the earliest sign of eruption is a small portion of the wisdom tooth becoming visible behind the last molar.
You may notice:
- A white edge of tooth behind the second molars
- A rough surface that was not previously present
- Increased sensitivity in the back of the mouth
Not all wisdom teeth become visible right away. Some remain partially or fully under the gums and can only be confirmed with dental imaging.
Signs a Wisdom Tooth May Be Impacted
Not all wisdom teeth come in normally. In many cases, there is not enough room in the jaw for these teeth to erupt properly.
Possible signs of an impacted wisdom tooth include:
- Persistent pain in the back of the mouth
- Swelling around the jaw or cheek
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Bad taste or odor from the back gums
- Repeated gum infections near the wisdom tooth area
Impacted wisdom teeth may grow at an angle or remain trapped under the gums or jawbone. Dental X-rays are usually needed to determine their position.
Wisdom Teeth Evaluation at Oral Facial & Implant Specialists
Dr. J. Travis Thompson, DDS at Oral Facial & Implant Specialists in Deer Park, IL specializes in oral and maxillofacial surgery, including third molar evaluation and wisdom tooth removal. Imaging allows the surgical team to assess tooth position, root development, and potential risk to nearby teeth or nerves before recommending treatment.
Wisdom Tooth Evaluation in Deer Park, IL
To book an appointment at our oral surgeons office in Deer Park, IL, call (847) 381-0106 or visit us at 21660 W. Field Parkway, Suite 220, Deer Park, IL.
FAQ
Some wisdom teeth erupt normally and cause little or no discomfort. Others cause swelling, gum irritation, or pressure if there is limited space in the jaw.
Wisdom teeth can take several months to fully emerge through the gums. In some cases, they remain partially erupted or impacted for years.
Sometimes a small white edge of the tooth becomes visible behind the second molars. In other cases, the tooth remains under the gums and can only be seen on a dental X-ray.
