Tooth Extraction FAQ: At What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Come In?

No one looks forward to tooth extraction, but sometimes it is necessary for a person's oral health. This is often the case with the last adult teeth to erupt, the wisdom teeth. Many people need to have one or more of their wisdom teeth removed because they are not coming in right, there is not enough room in the mouth, or the wisdom teeth are causing other oral health problems. 

When do wisdom teeth start to erupt?

Everyone is different, which means the age at which wisdom teeth erupt will vary. Certain factors play into whether or not wisdom teeth will come in, as well as when it happens. Generally speaking, most individuals will get their wisdom teeth around age 17. However, some individuals do not notice any signs until later in life, even as late as age 23. Additionally, some individuals never experience the growth of their wisdom teeth, which is more common than most people realize. Genetics and health history both play a huge role in the eruption of these teeth.

When the wisdom teeth start to grow in, most individuals experience crowding, as well as discomfort. Because the wisdom teeth are not meant to remain in the oral cavity, they often push the adult teeth out of the way, which leads to crowding and a lot of shifting. Both actions can result in discomforts, such as soreness or dull pain beneath the soft tissues.

Another aspect of the wisdom teeth growing in is the risk of impaction. When the wisdom teeth become impacted, there is a barrier that is not allowing for growth or eruption. Oftentimes, the gums or the adult teeth are the barriers, which can result in a lot of pain and serious complications, such as gum disease, cavities, or the dislodgement of the adult teeth.

Because of the risk of crowding, pain, and impaction, general dentists recommend a tooth extraction to remove the wisdom teeth from the oral cavity as soon as any visible signs of them are noticed. While tooth extraction may sound unnecessary, it is often essential to ensure that the adult teeth and gums remain healthy and in good shape.

Extracting wisdom teeth

The position of the wisdom tooth will determine whether or not the patient needs a simple or surgical extraction. Simple wisdom teeth extractions are for teeth fully above the gum line. A dentist will use a special tool to grasp them and carefully extract them from the mouth. Surgical wisdom teeth extractions are for teeth that are partially erupted or impacted. In this case, a dentist will need to make a small incision in the gum line to extract the teeth fully.

Consult with a general dentist

Wisdom tooth extractions are fairly common as almost everyone experiences the eruption of wisdom teeth at one point in their lives. Working with a general dentist to better understand how the process works and when the extraction is necessary can be helpful. Reach out today to find out more!

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