Wisdom teeth are also known as third molars. They are the last set of permanent teeth to develop. Most people have four wisdom teeth, located at the very back corners of the mouth at the top and the bottom.
They typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, wisdom teeth come in normally and don’t cause problems. For others, they can lead to discomfort, infection, or crowding and may need to be removed.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
They typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. Due to evolutionary changes in jaw size and dietary habits, many individuals no longer have sufficient space in the mouth to accommodate these additional teeth, which can lead to alignment issues or impaction.
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
An impacted wisdom tooth is when a wisdom tooth does not fully emerge through the gum, often because there isn’t enough space in the jaw to accommodate it properly. Impaction can vary in severity. In some cases, the tooth may partially erupt but remain covered by gum tissue (soft tissue impaction). In others, it may be partially or completely trapped within the jawbone (partial or full bony impaction). Wisdom teeth can also grow at an angle, including sideways toward neighboring teeth, which is known as horizontal impaction. The type and position of impaction help determine whether removal is recommended.
Impacted teeth can lead to:
- Pain and swelling
- Gum infection (pericoronitis)
- Tooth decay
- Cysts
- Damage to adjacent teeth
When this happens, removal is often recommended to prevent further complications.
Signs Your Third Molars May Need to Be Removed
Not all wisdom teeth need to come out. However, you should see a dentist if you experience:
- Persistent pain in the back of the mouth
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Jaw stiffness or difficulty opening your mouth
- Frequent headaches or earaches
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Repeated infections around the back molars
- Damage to nearby teeth
Sometimes wisdom teeth don’t cause obvious symptoms but are identified as problematic on dental X-rays.
Why Do Some Need to Be Pulled and Others Don’t?
Wisdom Teeth May Need Removal If:
- There isn’t enough room for them to fully erupt
- They are growing at an angle (toward other teeth)
- They are partially erupted and trap food and bacteria
- They cause infection, cysts, or damage to nearby teeth
- They contribute to crowding
Wisdom Teeth May Not Need Removal If:
- They are fully erupted
- They are properly aligned
- They are healthy and cavity free
- They can be cleaned effectively
- They are not causing pain or damage
Every patient is different, which is why an evaluation and imaging are important before making a decision.
What Is the Removal Procedure Like?
Wisdom tooth removal can range from a simple extraction to a minor surgical procedure, depending on how the tooth is positioned.
The procedure is common, safe, and performed routinely. Most patients recover within a few days to a week, following post operative care instructions carefully.
Why Choose a Dentist Who Is Experienced in Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom tooth removal can vary in complexity especially when teeth are impacted or located close to nerves or sinuses.
Our dentist specializes in wisdom teeth and extractions, meaning patients receive:
- Thorough evaluations and digital imaging
- Experience with both simple and more difficult wisdom teeth
- Careful treatment planning
- A focus on patient comfort and safety
- Clear post-procedure guidance to support smooth recovery
Choosing a provider with focused experience in wisdom teeth helps ensure you receive the safest, most effective care possible. Meet Dr Shannon Gune, our wisdom tooth dentist.
Wisdom teeth don’t always cause problems but when they do, early evaluation can prevent pain and complications. If you’re experiencing discomfort or have questions about your wisdom teeth, scheduling a consultation is the best next step.
