What are Wisdom Teeth?
Third molars, commonly called wisdom teeth, are the final four teeth to develop. Most people have 32 adult teeth, and wisdom teeth are the last to erupt. They typically appear between ages 17 and 25. You’ll find them at the back of the mouth, both on the top and bottom, near the throat.
When Do I Need To Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Not all wisdom teeth require removal. However, wisdom teeth removal is often recommended when problems are present or to prevent future complications.
Common reasons for wisdom teeth removal include:
- Pain or swelling
- Tooth decay
- Infection
- Impacted wisdom teeth
If one or more wisdom teeth are impacted and left untreated, several complications can occur:
- Damage to nearby teeth: The second molars can be affected, leading to cavities, gum disease, or bone loss.
- Disease: In rare cases, cysts or tumors may develop around impacted wisdom teeth.
- Infection: Food and bacteria can become trapped under the gums, causing infection and pain.
- Tooth crowding: Some believe wisdom teeth can shift nearby teeth, but research has not confirmed this.
What to Expect from Surgery
Wisdom teeth removal is a common and safe procedure. It is typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon using local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia.
The procedure does not require an overnight stay. After surgery, you will receive post-operative instructions and, if needed, medication to help manage swelling and discomfort.
Getting an Examination
Before recommending wisdom teeth removal, your dentist or oral surgeon will perform a full examination of your teeth and surrounding areas.
Panoramic or digital X-rays are used to:
- Evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth
- Identify current dental issues
- Detect potential future problems
These X-rays may also reveal additional risks, such as damage or decay affecting nearby teeth.
Early evaluation is important. In many cases, dentists recommend assessing wisdom teeth during the mid-teen years. This helps identify issues early and improves treatment outcomes.
What are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is not enough space for the teeth to fully erupt. As a result, the tooth becomes trapped in the jaw or gums.
If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to:
- Infection
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Cysts or tumors
In many cases, impacted wisdom teeth require extraction to prevent these complications.
Types of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
There are several types of impacted wisdom teeth based on how deeply they are positioned within the jaw:
Soft Tissue Impaction:
The crown of the tooth has broken through the bone, but the gum tissue still partially or fully covers it. Because this area is difficult to clean, food and bacteria can become trapped, increasing the risk of infection, decay, pain, and swelling.
Partial Bony Impaction:
The tooth has partially erupted, but part of it remains covered by the gum and jawbone. This makes cleaning difficult and often leads to infection or inflammation.
Complete Bony Impaction:
The tooth is fully encased within the jawbone. This type of impaction typically requires a more complex surgical procedure for removal.
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Non-Urgent Questions? Contact Us.
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