Wisdom tooth growth process
May 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars or third large molars, typically begin to grow during late adolescence or early adulthood. The development of wisdom teeth generally consists of three stages: the developmental stage, the eruption stage, and the positioning stage. Around the age of 12, the formation of wisdom teeth begins, although they have not yet emerged from the gums at this point.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars or third large molars, typically begin to grow during late adolescence or early adulthood. The growth process of wisdom teeth generally consists of three stages: the developmental stage, the eruption stage, and the positioning stage. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Developmental Stage
This usually begins around age 12, when the wisdom teeth start to form but have not yet emerged from the gums.
2. Eruption Stage
Typically occurring between ages 17 and 25, the wisdom teeth begin to emerge from the gums and gradually grow into the mouth. During this process, some discomfort may occur, such as swollen or painful gums.
3. Positioning Stage
The wisdom teeth have fully erupted through the gums and aligned with adjacent teeth. If their position is appropriate and they do not negatively affect the mouth, they can be retained. Otherwise, removal may be necessary.
It should be noted that sometimes wisdom teeth grow abnormally, potentially affecting the health of surrounding teeth and gums—for example, horizontally impacted wisdom teeth or those eroding neighboring teeth—in which cases extraction may be required.
