In some cases, wisdom teeth emerge normally and do not cause any pain or other symptoms. In other cases, wisdom teeth do not erupt, yet still do not cause any symptoms.

However, many people experience symptoms if their wisdom teeth become impacted. Untreated impacted wisdom teeth push surrounding teeth out of place or cause them to erode. Wisdom teeth may be difficult to reach during brushing, which can leave them vulnerable to tooth decay.

In some cases, a flap of gum grows over the wisdom teeth. If food and bacteria become trapped under the flap, an infection called pericoronitis may set in. If an infection sets in, patients often experience pain, tenderness or swelling around the gums, jaw stiffness, and general illness. In some cases, the infection may spread to the cheek, throat and neck. After pericoronitis occurs there is a risk of repeated infections, which may become more frequent and severe without treatment.

In some cases, the sac in which the crown of the tooth develops can fill with fluid and form a cyst. This can damage the jawbone, nerves and teeth. In rare cases, a tumor may develop. These typically are noncancerous, but may require removal of bone and tissue.

Other symptoms include:

• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Difficulty opening the jaw (trismus)
• Ongoing headache, jaw ache or ear ache
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Unpleasant taste when biting down on the tooth or the surrounding area

Symptoms may be ongoing, or may come and go. Usually, they become progressively worse over time. Patients are urged to consult their dentist if they experience swelling of their mouth, teeth, gums or jaw. Other signs and symptoms that usually require a visit to a dentist include any changes in a person’s teeth, including changes in tooth position or sensitivity of the teeth, or discoloration.