Did you know that about 85% of people eventually need their wisdom teeth removed? That’s because these third molars often don’t have enough room to grow in properly, leading to crowding, discomfort, and even infections. For many, the earliest signs your wisdom teeth are coming in are easy to miss—until the pain or pressure becomes impossible to ignore.
In this blog, we’ll discuss six signs that your wisdom teeth are appearing, so you know what to watch for and when to see your dentist for a dental extraction.
Top 6 Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In
As your third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, begin to develop, your body will likely confirm this to you in various ways. Recognizing these early signs can help you act quickly and avoid complications like impaction, infection, or tooth misalignment.
1. Sore or Tender Gums
As third molars push through, the surrounding gum tissue often becomes irritated, causing soreness or tenderness, especially when brushing or eating near the back of your mouth.
2. Visible White Speck (Erupted Tooth)
A small white speck near the back of your gums may be the tip of an erupted tooth breaking through, often mistaken for plaque but signaling early wisdom tooth emergence.
3. Gum Swelling Behind Molars
Swelling behind your second molars is a common early sign of erupting third molars and can make cleaning the area difficult, increasing the risk of discomfort and infection.
4. Jaw Pain or Pressure
Emerging third molars can press against adjacent teeth or bone, leading to a dull ache or tightness in the jaw that may radiate toward your ears or cause headaches.
5. Pain While Chewing
Wisdom teeth can crowd or irritate the back of your mouth, making chewing painful, especially when biting down or applying pressure to the area.
6. Shifting or Crowded Teeth
If your smile suddenly feels tighter or your teeth appear to be shifting, third molars tend to apply force on existing teeth, causing crowding or bite misalignment over time.
When Do Your Wisdom Teeth Come In?
They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25, although some people may experience them earlier or later, depending on genetics and jaw development.
Can Wisdom Teeth Grow Back Once Removed?
No, they cannot grow back once they’ve been surgically removed. Everyone only develops one set of third molars, so once they’re out, they’re gone for good.
What Does Wisdom Teeth Pain Feel Like?
Wisdom teeth pain often starts as a dull, throbbing ache in the back of your mouth or jaw. Due to the added pressure of the erupting molars, some people experience headaches, earaches, or a feeling of tightness in the jaw.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth in the First Place?
Third molars are a leftover part of human evolution. Early humans relied on these extra molars to grind tough foods like roots, raw meat, and nuts, especially since they often lost teeth at a younger age. But today, thanks to softer diets and better oral hygiene, we don’t need them anymore.
How Smile4Me Dental Care Helps You Handle Wisdom Teeth
Smile4Me Dental Care houses the top dentists in Astoria for wisdom teeth removal. Whether your third molars are just starting to erupt or already causing issues, our experienced team is here to help you avoid long-term problems and recover with ease.
Expert Dental Extractions
At Smile4Me Dental Care, we provide precise wisdom tooth extractions guided by digital X-rays and 3D imaging. Dr. Iosif Khaimov has extensive experience removing both erupted and impacted teeth, ensuring minimal discomfort and fast healing.
Sedation and Comfort Options
We understand that oral surgery can make some patients feel anxious, which is why we offer several sedation choices to help you stay calm and comfortable. Our gentle, supportive team is dedicated to making your visit smooth, pain-free, and as relaxing as possible.
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore the Signs That Your Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In
Identifying the signs of third molars coming in can help you take action early and avoid more serious dental issues. While these late-blooming molars are natural, they often require professional attention to prevent discomfort and misalignment.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t wait. Book an appointment online with Smile4Me Dental Care, or walk in today for same-day service!
