How does one tell if a wisdom tooth erupting and not just a regular tooth ache?

See your dentist: If you get an exam it may be able to help determine if it is one tooth another or both. Decay may be present or you may just have tenderness where the tooth is trying to come through. You may need to have them removed. You will only know if you go in to have them checked out.

Radiograph: I would recommend you see your dentist and have a radiograph to properly diagnosis the problem.

Not Easy: Tooth pain can often be difficult to distinguish from pain associated with wisdom teeth. Push on your gums behind your back tooth. If that area is very tender, it may be a result of the wisdom tooth coming in. In either case, you should be seen by your dentist.