What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of adult teeth to emerge in the mouth. Most individuals will develop all four wisdom teeth, though some may have fewer, and others may not develop any at all. Wisdom teeth are often considered vestigial, meaning they may have once had a functional role in human evolution but are no longer necessary. As a result, it is entirely normal for wisdom teeth to be extracted when needed.

Is It Necessary to Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth do not need to be removed if they erupt properly and do not cause any issues with surrounding teeth. However, in many cases, wisdom teeth can become impacted, leading to problems such as infections, cavities, or other oral health concerns. In such cases, removal is typically recommended to prevent further complications.

What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

An impacted wisdom tooth refers to a tooth that grows at an angle and becomes either trapped beneath the gum line or only partially emerges. It is common for wisdom teeth to become impacted due to a lack of space in the mouth. Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or redness in the back of the mouth may indicate an impacted wisdom tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with your dentist.

At What Age Do Wisdom Teeth Erupt?

Wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. However, the absence of visible wisdom teeth does not necessarily mean they are not present. In some cases, they may be impacted beneath the gums. Through routine dental x-rays, your dentist can determine the number of wisdom teeth you have, assess whether they are impacted, and advise whether removal is recommended.

How Is the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure Performed?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine surgical procedure. The process begins with the administration of anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure. The dentist will select either local or general anesthesia depending on the patient’s preferences and the complexity of the extraction. An incision is made in the gum to access the impacted tooth, which may be removed as a whole or in smaller sections if necessary. Once the tooth is fully removed, the dentist will clean the area and close the incision with sutures. Gauze will be placed over the site to manage any post-operative bleeding.

Contact Boston Dental

If you have any questions regarding wisdom tooth extractions or would like to schedule an appointment at our Seaport, Government Center, or Downtown Crossing locations, please contact our team at Boston Dental. Call any of our offices or complete the contact form on our website, and a member of our staff will respond promptly.