It is not uncommon for wisdom teeth (third molars) to cause trouble. They:
- Often run out of space at the back of the mouth.
- Erupt typically between 16 and early 20’s.
- Can cause pain from pressure against adjacent teeth and surrounding structures.
- Hold the tooth in place. Bite on a handkerchief to hold it in position and go to the dentist immediately.
- Can get stuck (impacted) – often leaving a flap of gum over the back part of the tooth.
- Can get a gum infection around them (called pericoronitis).