Wisdom Teeth: What You Should Know Before They Cause Trouble

You may not feel them yet—but your wisdom teeth have likely been developing for years. In fact, these third molars begin forming as early as age 9, and by age 14, their crowns are already visible on an x-ray. While they typically don’t emerge until ages 17 to 25, we’re able to track their development early to make sure they don’t cause future problems.

So why do we have wisdom teeth in the first place?

These molars were once helpful for our ancestors, who had larger jaws and tougher diets that wore down teeth more quickly. But modern mouths often don’t have enough room to fit them comfortably—and that’s when complications can start.

Why Wisdom Teeth Can Be a Problem

When there’s not enough space for them to grow in properly, wisdom teeth can:

• Become impacted, meaning they’re stuck beneath the gums or bone

• Grow in sideways or press against neighboring teeth, causing shifting or pain

• Partially erupt, leaving a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria

These issues may not cause pain right away—but they can lead to more serious concerns like:

• Tooth decay

• Gum infections

• Bad breath

• Jaw discomfort

• Even bone loss if left untreated

Watch for These Signs of Trouble

Even if your wisdom teeth haven’t come in yet, your body may be trying to tell you something. Some common warning signs include:

• Pain, swelling, or tightness in the back of your jaw

• Gums that bleed easily or feel inflamed

• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

• Trouble opening your mouth or chewing comfortably

When Is the Best Time to Remove Them?

Often, the ideal time to remove wisdom teeth is before they cause pain or damage—typically in the late teen years or early twenties. At this stage, the roots aren’t fully formed and the bone is softer, making recovery easier and faster.

Regular dental visits and x-rays allow us to monitor the position of your wisdom teeth over time. If we spot signs that they may become problematic, we can recommend early removal to avoid future complications.

Have Questions About Wisdom Teeth? We’re Here to Help.

If you or your child is approaching the age when wisdom teeth begin to emerge, it’s the perfect time to start the conversation. Early evaluation gives us the best chance to prevent discomfort, protect healthy teeth, and support long-term oral health.