Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to develop, typically appearing in the late teens or early twenties. While some people have enough space for these teeth to grow normally, others develop impacted wisdom teeth. This happens when a wisdom tooth does not have enough room to fully emerge and becomes trapped beneath the gums or partially erupts.
Impacted wisdom teeth may not always cause immediate symptoms, which is why problems can sometimes develop unnoticed. A tooth trapped beneath the gums can grow at an angle, press against a neighbouring tooth, or remain enclosed within the jawbone. Over time, this may contribute to discomfort, swelling, infection, or damage to nearby teeth.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can also create spaces where food particles and bacteria collect. Because these areas can be difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing, they may become more vulnerable to tooth decay and gum inflammation. Some patients may experience tenderness, an unpleasant taste, difficulty opening their mouth, or swelling around the back of the jaw.
Regular dental examinations and X-rays can help identify impacted wisdom teeth before they cause more noticeable problems. Your dentist can evaluate their position, monitor changes, and determine whether removal may be recommended.
If wisdom tooth removal is necessary, planning treatment at the appropriate time can help protect surrounding teeth and support long-term oral health.
The professional and highly skilled team from Sameday Dental is here to help with your dental needs. If you are experiencing discomfort around your wisdom teeth or are concerned about impacted teeth, schedule a dental consultation to learn more about your treatment options.