Did you know that not everyone has wisdom teeth? In fact, only about 3 out of 4 people do. And, for those that do have wisdom teeth, not all will erupt. Sometimes they remain hidden under the gumline, and other times, they need to be pulled if they grow in crooked, lack space, or become infected causing pain and swelling. If you have a teen who is approaching the age of 17, now’s the time to start learning the signs that their wisdom teeth are on the way in.
Swelling
Watch for any signs of swelling around the gums and teeth. Wisdom teeth can trigger redness and inflammation when they start to come in. In rare occasions, one may also experience swollen lymph glands or find it difficult to swallow. If this is the case with your teen, talk to your dentist (who can prescribe some medication to help reduce the swelling).
Pain
The most common symptom your teen will experience is pain. Although some short-term pain is normal with erupting teeth, chronic, or extreme pain is not. So if your teen is complaining about consistent tenderness in the gums and around the jaw, or a feeling of intense pressure or throbbing, it’s time to call your dentist. If you delay and the teeth are unable to erupt normally, there’s a risk that bacteria will penetrate the tooth and cause an infection that can lead to extreme pain.
Bad Breath
Speaking of infection, partially erupted teeth can also cause bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. If any of these symptoms are accompanied by severe pain, fever, pus, or swollen lymph nodes, contact your dentist right away.
Headaches
Wisdom teeth can also pressure the nerves around them causing pain in other regions of your head. Another sign your teen’s wisdom teeth are on the way is if they’ve been experiencing frequent headaches or pain along the ears and eyes.
Rounded Formations
Your teen may also discover new rounded formations occurring in the area at the back of the mouth. This is the erupted tooth trying to push itself up through the gum wall. When the teeth come in a little bit, they also become visible and usually appear as tiny white specks just over the gums.
If any of the symptoms cause your teen pain or discomfort, it’s important to have their teeth inspected as soon as possible. At Carlingwood Dental, we can arrange an appointment and ensure they get the care that they need. Contact us today to set up your appointment.
