
Why Wisdom Teeth Sometimes Need to Go
Wisdom teeth, also known as your third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop. They usually make their appearance at the back of your mouth between the ages of 16 and 20, and although part of your permanent teeth, we've "outgrown" them, so to speak. While healthy, properly positioned wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset, they often cause more problems than they're worth.
When your jaw isn't large enough to accommodate them, wisdom teeth can become impacted. This means they might grow sideways, only partially emerge from the gum, or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone. They can cause constant pressure as they try to make space, with your other healthy teeth being shifted out of place to try and make room. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to:
- Pain and discomfort
- Infection
- Damage to neighboring teeth
- Crowding
- Cysts or tumors (in rare cases)
We understand that the thought of wisdom tooth extraction can be a little daunting. That's why at Dental Professionals, we prioritize your comfort and well-being every step of the way.