Wisdom tooth growth rate

Wisdom teeth typically take several months to several years to grow from the gums to full development, and their growth rate varies at different stages.

Wisdom teeth usually begin to emerge between the ages of 18 and 25, and the entire eruption process may last from several months to a few years. Generally, wisdom teeth grow relatively slowly; it may take about six months to a year for them to fully emerge after starting to break through the gums. In the early stages of eruption, they may grow only about 1 to 2 millimeters per month. Although the growth rate may gradually increase over time, it remains quite slow.

When wisdom teeth begin growing from within the jawbone, they first go through a tooth development phase, which commonly occurs between ages 13 and 15. At this stage, the wisdom tooth is merely a small dental bud and has not yet fully formed into a complete tooth. As the wisdom tooth starts pushing toward the gum surface, this phase can last from several months to several years, depending on the individual. During this period, growth is extremely slow—approximately 1 millimeter per month. The final stage, in which the wisdom tooth fully emerges through the gum surface, may take several months, with duration varying among individuals. Growth may accelerate somewhat during this stage, but it is still slower compared to other teeth.

The growth rate and process of wisdom teeth vary significantly from person to person. If wisdom teeth grow horizontally, cause crowding, or become impacted, they may lead to symptoms such as swollen and painful gums, bad breath, or headaches, requiring prompt medical attention.