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The arrival of wisdom teeth, or third molars, can be a significant milestone in one's dental journey. Normally appearing between ages 17 to 21, these teeth often emerge at the back of the mouth when young adults are transitioning into adulthood - a time known as the "Age of Wisdom." This is why they are called "wisdom teeth."
While some people may have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others experience problems that require extraction. In fact, for many young adults, pain from emerging or impacted wisdom teeth is the most common reason they seek urgent dental care.
With limited space in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth are more likely to face difficulties. While our prehistoric ancestors had large enough jaws to accommodate these teeth, human jaws have become smaller over time. This is believed to be due to our softer diets and larger brains.
An impacted wisdom tooth is one that remains submerged under gum tissue or bone and cannot emerge into its proper position. Depending on the type and amount of overlying tissue, impactions can be classified in various ways. Soft tissue impactions occur when a wisdom tooth remains covered by gum tissue, while bony impactions involve a tooth that is entirely or partially obstructed by bone.
Besides the frequency of impacted wisdom teeth and poor alignment, keeping these teeth clean and free from cavities and gum disease can be challenging. As they are located far back in the mouth, these teeth are particularly susceptible to bacterial accumulation, dental disease, and infection. Our office may recommend extracting third molars to help reduce the risk of these oral health issues, thereby preserving the overall well-being of your gums and neighboring teeth. By eliminating the need for navigating hard-to-reach areas, maintaining a better oral hygiene routine becomes simpler and healthier.
In rare cases, wisdom teeth may contribute to the formation of cysts or tumors around the impacted tooth. These problems can cause significant damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.
Our office will closely monitor the development, positioning, and health of unerupted and erupted wisdom teeth during every dental checkup visit. For teens and adults of all ages, we often recommend the extraction of potentially problematic wisdom teeth before a painful or complex emergency arises. We also provide prompt treatment and recommend extractions as necessary if symptoms and issues develop.
