As your teen grows, their smile goes through many changes. One major milestone for many teens is the development of their wisdom teeth. Also known as third molars, wisdom teeth typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25, but early signs may show up in the mid-teen years. As a parent, understanding what to expect and how to care for your teen during this time can make a big difference in their dental health and comfort. With this in mind, we at Smile Reef would like to share what parents should know about wisdom teeth.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars located at the very back of the mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth—two on the top and two on the bottom. These teeth were useful to our ancestors who needed extra chewing power for a coarse diet. However, modern mouths often don’t have enough space to accommodate them, which can lead to complications.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Start to Emerge?
In many teens, the roots of wisdom teeth begin to form during the teenage years. Even if they haven’t erupted yet, a dentist can typically see them on dental X-rays. Around ages 16–19 is a common window for evaluating whether wisdom teeth may become problematic.
Common Issues with Wisdom Teeth
Because there is often limited room in the mouth, wisdom teeth can cause a number of issues, including:
Impaction: The teeth become trapped under the gums or grow sideways.
Crowding: New teeth may push other teeth out of alignment.
Infection: Partially erupted teeth can trap food and bacteria.
Pain or swelling: Especially around the jaw or back of the mouth.
Left untreated, these problems can lead to more serious oral health issues, including gum disease, cysts, and damage to neighboring teeth.
Signs Your Teen May Have a Problem with Their Wisdom Teeth
It’s important to monitor your teen for symptoms such as:
– Jaw pain or stiffness
– Swelling in the gums or face
– Trouble opening the mouth fully
– Persistent bad breath
– Headaches or earaches
If your teen experiences any of these symptoms, schedule a dental appointment to evaluate their wisdom teeth.
Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Not necessarily. Some teens have enough room for their wisdom teeth to grow in properly and stay healthy. However, many dentists recommend removal if the teeth are impacted or likely to cause future problems. This is especially true if they’re difficult to clean or contributing to crowding.
What to Expect if Wisdom Teeth Removal is Needed
Wisdom tooth removal is a common, outpatient procedure typically done under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the case. Most teens recover within a few days to a week. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize swelling and discomfort.
Pediatric Dentistry
Wisdom teeth are a natural part of growing up, but they don’t always emerge without problems. By staying informed and scheduling regular dental checkups, you can help ensure your teen’s smile stays healthy and pain-free. If your dentist recommends monitoring or removal, don’t hesitate to ask questions, early action can prevent more serious issues down the road. Call Smile Reef today to schedule your child’s dental appointment.