When Do Wisdom Teeth Come In, & When Should They Be Removed?

Getting your wisdom teeth can be a confusing and sometimes stressful experience. These teeth that are officially called third molars are the last ones to show up in your mouth, and they don't always behave like your other teeth.

While some people never get wisdom teeth at all, most of us will need to deal with them at some point in our lives. You've probably heard stories from friends or family about their wisdom teeth experiences, but everyone's situation is different.

Let's walk through what you need to know about these late-blooming teeth and figure out if - or when they might need to come out.

What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Come In?

Most people's wisdom teeth start to emerge between ages 17 and 25. While some people have at least one wisdom tooth, do wisdom teeth come in at the same time? Not necessarily, they often emerge at different rates.

You'll typically find these teeth at the very back of your mouth, with one in each corner - upper left, lower left, upper right, and lower right. These molars usually have two to three roots, though some can have four, and their shape can vary significantly from person to person.

What Can Impact Wisdom Teeth Age?

The timing of when your wisdom teeth come in isn't the same for everyone. Your genetics play a significant role in determining when, or if your wisdom teeth will appear.

Some people might notice their wisdom teeth coming in during their late teens, while others won't see any signs until their mid-twenties.

In some cases, these teeth might remain completely hidden beneath the gums, which dentists call "fully impacted" wisdom teeth. Your jaw size and tooth development patterns also influence when these final molars make their appearance.

When Do Wisdom Teeth Come Out?

The wisdom teeth removal age varies, but many dentists agree that the best time for wisdom teeth removal is in your late teens or early 20s. At this stage, the roots aren't fully developed - making extraction easier and recovery typically smoother.

That's why your dentist might suggest removal even if you're not experiencing problems yet. Early removal can prevent future complications and make the healing process more straightforward.

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed

You might notice several signs that indicate your wisdom teeth should come out. Watch for persistent pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, swelling around your jaw, or redness and tenderness in your gums behind your second molars.

Some people have trouble opening their mouth fully or develop bad breath that won't go away despite good oral hygiene.

Sometimes you won't notice any obvious symptoms and that's why regular dental check-ups are so essential to determine if you need any dental services. Your dentist can spot potential problems through X-rays before they cause discomfort or damage to your other teeth.

Risks of Neglecting Wisdom Tooth Removal

Putting off wisdom teeth removal when it's needed can lead to several complications. Your wisdom teeth might grow in at odd angles, pushing against your other teeth and causing alignment issues.

They're also prone to decay since they're hard to reach with your toothbrush and floss. You might develop cysts around impacted wisdom teeth, which can damage your jawbone and nearby teeth.

There's also an increased risk of gum disease (pericoronitis) around partially emerged wisdom teeth where bacteria can easily get trapped. These issues can become more severe and harder to treat if left unaddressed.

Caring for Your Mouth After Wisdom Tooth Removal

After having your wisdom teeth removed, you'll need to take special care of your mouth. Your dentist will give you specific instructions, but you can expect some swelling and discomfort for a few days.

You'll want to stick to soft foods, avoid using straws, and keep the extraction sites clean to prevent infection. Most people recover fully within a week or two.

You'll need to be gentle when brushing near the surgery sites and follow your dentist's guidelines about when you can resume normal activities. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication can help manage any discomfort during the healing process.

Final Thoughts

When do wisdom teeth come in? While the timing varies for everyone, staying alert to signs of problems and maintaining regular dental visits lets you address any issues before they become serious.

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, but when it's necessary, earlier treatment often means an easier recovery and better outcomes.

Remember to schedule regular check-ups so we can monitor your wisdom teeth development and recommend removal at the right time.

With proper care and attention, you can maintain a healthy smile whether your wisdom teeth stay or go. Trust your dentist's guidance about timing because we'll help you make the right choice for your oral health.

Schedule a consultation for wisdom teeth extraction.