Understanding the Role (and Risks) of Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge, typically in the late teens or early twenties. While some people never develop them at all, others may have one, two, three, or all four. In many cases, there simply isn’t enough room in the jaw to accommodate these extra teeth — and that’s when problems can start.

Common issues include:

• Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
• Inflammation or infection around erupting teeth
• Shifting or crowding of nearby teeth
• Damage to neighbouring molars
• Cysts forming around impacted teeth

Even if your teen isn’t in pain, it’s important to monitor wisdom teeth with routine X-rays and exams, as they can cause hidden damage long before symptoms appear. 

When Should Teens Be Evaluated for Wisdom Teeth?

Most dentists begin monitoring for wisdom teeth between the ages of 15 and 18. This is the ideal window to determine if the teeth are coming in straight, if they’re likely to become impacted, and whether early removal is recommended.

At Glenmore Park Dental, we take a proactive approach with:

• Panoramic dental X-rays to assess tooth position
• Evaluation of root development and spacing
• Honest, no-pressure advice about removal timing
• Preventive monitoring if the teeth appear stable

Wisdom tooth removal is often easier and recovery is faster when performed earlier, before the roots fully form or complications arise.

Signs Your Teen May Have Wisdom Teeth Issues

While some wisdom teeth come in without any problems, others can trigger a variety of symptoms, including:

• Sore or swollen gums at the back of the mouth
• Pain or aching in the jaw or ear
• Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
• Difficulty opening the mouth fully
• Visible crowding or shifting of front teeth

These symptoms can also indicate infection, partial eruption (where the tooth breaks through only partway), or impaction (where the tooth is blocked from emerging). If any of these signs appear, book an appointment as soon as possible.

What Happens During a Wisdom Tooth Consultation?

Your teen’s visit at Glenmore Park Dental will include:

1. Full dental exam to assess gum health and tooth alignment
2. X-rays to view root positioning and jaw structure
3. Discussion of whether removal is needed — and when
4. Sedation options for anxiety or complex extractions
5. Treatment plan if extraction is recommended, with pre- and post-op guidance

Our team will walk both you and your teen through every step, ensuring you’re comfortable with the decision and fully informed about risks, benefits, and recovery.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?

Not necessarily. If the wisdom teeth are healthy, fully erupted, and properly aligned, they may not need to be extracted. However, regular monitoring is key — even stable wisdom teeth can develop issues over time.

Removal may be recommended if:

• The teeth are impacted
• There’s not enough space in the jaw
• Cysts or decay are forming
• Adjacent teeth are being pushed or damaged
• There’s recurring infection or pain

The earlier we detect these signs, the easier and safer the extraction process tends to be.

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal

If your teen needs extraction, you can expect:

• Minor swelling for 1–3 days
• Soft food diet for several days
• Rest and limited activity for 2–3 days
• Pain management with over-the-counter or prescribed medication
• Follow-up care and guidance from our team

Most teens recover quickly and are back to normal routines within a week. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing and prevent complications like dry socket. 

Protect Your Teen’s Smile With a Wisdom Tooth Evaluation

Wisdom teeth are a normal part of growing up, but they can cause serious issues if not properly monitored. At Glenmore Park Dental, we make it easy to assess, plan, and take action if your teen’s wisdom teeth need attention. Whether you live in Glenbrook, Lakeview, Altadore, or nearby Calgary communities, we’re here to support your family’s oral health every step of the way.

Contact us to book your teen’s dental exam today and get ahead of wisdom tooth problems before they start.