Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to develop, usually appearing during the late teens or early twenties. For some people, they come through without causing any problems. For others, there may not be enough space for them to erupt properly, or they may only partially emerge through the gum.
Wisdom teeth have been in the spotlight across Australia this August as part of the Australian Dental Association’s Dental Health Week 2026. This year’s campaign has placed a particular focus on young Australians aged 18 to 25, encouraging greater awareness of wisdom tooth symptoms and the importance of regular dental visits.
The important thing to remember is that having wisdom teeth does not automatically mean they need to be removed. However, there are some signs that may indicate it is worth having them assessed by your dentist.
1. Pain or Tenderness at the Back of Your Mouth
One of the more noticeable signs of a wisdom tooth problem is discomfort towards the very back of the mouth.
This may feel like tenderness around the gum, pressure or pain that comes and goes. Some discomfort can occur as a wisdom tooth begins to emerge, but ongoing or worsening pain should be assessed to determine what may be causing it.
2. Red, Swollen or Tender Gums
A wisdom tooth that has only partially emerged can sometimes leave an area of gum around the tooth where bacteria and food debris can accumulate.
This can make the area difficult to keep clean and may contribute to inflammation or infection. You might notice redness, swelling, tenderness or bleeding around the gum.
3. Swelling Around Your Jaw or Face
Swelling towards the back of the jaw or around the face can sometimes be associated with inflammation or infection around a wisdom tooth.
Facial swelling should not be ignored, particularly when accompanied by pain, fever or feeling unwell. Contact your dentist so the cause can be assessed.
4. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth Comfortably
Inflammation around a wisdom tooth can sometimes make opening your mouth uncomfortable or more difficult than usual.
You may notice this when eating, brushing your teeth or yawning. If the problem persists, a dental examination can help determine whether a wisdom tooth may be involved.
5. Persistent Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste
Bad breath can have many causes, but wisdom teeth can sometimes contribute.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth can create areas that are particularly difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss. Food and bacteria may become trapped around the tooth, potentially resulting in an unpleasant taste or persistent bad breath.
6. Food Keeps Getting Trapped Around Your Back Teeth
If you regularly notice food becoming caught around your wisdom teeth, it may be worth having the area checked.
The position of a wisdom tooth or the gum surrounding a partially erupted tooth can create spaces that are difficult to clean effectively. Over time, this may increase the risk of tooth decay or problems with the surrounding gum.
7. Problems With the Tooth Next to Your Wisdom Tooth
Sometimes it isn’t the wisdom tooth itself that first causes noticeable symptoms.
The position of a wisdom tooth can make the neighbouring molar harder to clean and, in some circumstances, may contribute to problems affecting the adjacent tooth or surrounding tissues.
This is one reason a dental assessment can be helpful even if your wisdom teeth themselves aren’t particularly painful.
Do Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Be Removed?
No. Wisdom teeth that are healthy, appropriately positioned and able to be kept clean may not require removal.
Whether treatment is appropriate depends on factors such as the position of the teeth, available space, symptoms and the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. Your dentist can assess your individual circumstances and discuss the available options with you.
A wisdom teeth assessment usually begins with an examination of your teeth, gums and the back of your mouth. Where clinically appropriate, your dentist may also recommend dental X-rays to better understand the position and development of your wisdom teeth and their relationship with nearby teeth and structures.
Verve Dental can provide wisdom teeth screening and assessment to check how your wisdom teeth are developing and identify any potential concerns. If further treatment is appropriate, your dentist can discuss the findings with you and explain your options.
Whether your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort or you simply want to know how they are developing, having them checked can provide a clearer picture of what is happening and whether any further attention may be required.
Concerned about your wisdom teeth? Contact Verve Dental to arrange a wisdom teeth assessment with one of our dental professionals.
