Wisdom Teeth Management
and Care Instructions

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are third molars, and the last teeth that erupt at the back of our mouth. Most people have 4 wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth. They are teeth which help chew hard and coarse foods like nuts or meat. However, since they typically erupt last in the mouth, they are difficult to clean and, in some cases, don’t erupt in a proper position which will then require extraction.

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When do wisdom teeth erupt?

They are called wisdom teeth because they usually appear during their late teens to early twenties (around 18-21 years of age), when a person is considered more mature and wiser. Some people may feel wisdom teeth erupting as early as 16-17 years old.

There are also cases wherein wisdom teeth do not erupt at all.

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Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Eruption

The first signs of wisdom teeth coming in vary from each person. Typically, these include:

• Swollen or tender gums – the gums where wisdom teeth erupt usually opens while the tooth comes out. If the gums feel sensitive and appear swollen, a wisdom tooth might erupt.

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• Inflammation – the gums in the back of your mouth become red and inflamed.

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• Slight discomfort or soreness – dull intermittent pain may be felt when a tooth is soon to erupt in the mouth.

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• Jaw stiffness – there might be stiffness of the jaw or difficulty opening and closing the mouth.

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• Bad breath or taste – since wisdom teeth are found at the back most portion of the mouth, they are difficult to clean and brush. This may lead to bad breath and unpleasant taste.

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• Visible crown – you can see the tip of the crown on the opening of the gums if the tooth starts erupting in the mouth.

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Not everyone experiences these symptoms, and some people may have no symptoms at all. If you suspect a wisdom tooth coming out, it is best to consult with a dentist to evaluate their development and assess if they need to be removed.

They can also cause dental problems which you can read here.

Care Tips for Erupting Wisdom Teeth

Maintain Optimal Oral Hygiene

Stick to your regular oral hygiene routine, which involves brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. Pay extra attention to the back of your mouth where the wisdom teeth are coming in. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean the area.

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Use Saltwater Rinse

Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater (mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) multiple times a day. This can help minimize inflammation and maintain cleanliness in the area.

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Avoid Putting Pressure

Be mindful not to chew excessively on the side where your wisdom teeth are erupting. Reducing pressure on these teeth can help alleviate discomfort.

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Consider Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

If you encounter mild pain or discomfort, you may find relief by using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Always adhere to the recommended dosage and guidelines.

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Soft Food Diet

‍During the eruption of your wisdom teeth, opt for a soft-food diet. Refrain from consuming hard, crunchy, and sticky foods, as they can strain the emerging teeth and cause discomfort.

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Visit Your Dentist

Regular dental check-ups are crucial, especially when your wisdom teeth are coming in. Your dentist can monitor their progress, assess any potential problems, and recommend the best course of action if needed.

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Our clinic, Auckland Family Dental, offers free consultation for us to assess your condition and recommend removal if you need one.

We have clinic locations in Drury, Milford, Parnell, and New Lynn to accommodate your dental needs and concerns.