Wisdom Teeth

Third molars are commonly referred to as wisdom teeth. They are usually the last teeth to develop and are located in the back of your mouth, behind your second molars. Their development is usually completed between the teenage years or early twenties, a time traditionally associated with the onset of maturity and the attainment of wisdom.

What Is An Impacted Tooth?

Although most people develop and grow 32 permanent, adult teeth, many times their jaws are too small to accommodate the four wisdom teeth. When inadequate space prevents the teeth from eruption they are called impacted. This indicates their inability to erupt into the proper position for chewing and cleaning.

Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause infection, damage to the adjacent teeth, crowding of your teeth. Cysts are fluid-filled"balloons" inside the jaw bone that develop as a result of impacted teeth slowly expand destroying adjacent jawbone and teeth. Although rare, tumors can be associated with the delayed removal of wisdom teeth.

When Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Impacted wisdom teeth should be removed before their root structure is fully developed. In some patients it is as early as 12 or 13, and in others it may not be until the early twenties. In general, you will heal faster, more predictably and have fewer complications if treated in your teens or early twenties.