Wisdom tooth removal is typically performed because of a lack of room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth. Humans have four wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth, also called third molars, which typically erupt between the ages of 18 and 24. Because the wisdom teeth are the last of all our teeth to erupt, almost all of the room in the jaw is often already used up and cannot fit the wisdom teeth.
Why should you get your Wisdom Teeth removed?
- Without any space to grow in properly, wisdom teeth can become trapped under the gums or grow sideways.
- Wisdom teeth that are trying to break through into the mouth can cause pressure and move other teeth out of place.
- Many people need wisdom tooth extractions before orthodontic treatment (braces or Invisalign) or right after.
- Partially erupted wisdom teeth can form a pouch that traps food, which can cause a wisdom tooth and the teeth around it to decay.
- The gums around wisdom teeth may become infected and cause swelling, pain, and a bad odor.
- Wisdom teeth trapped in the jaw bone can cause a cyst to form. Cysts can push other teeth out of place and in rare cases form a tumor.
- Patients who are about to have dentures constructed should have their wisdom teeth removed.
Signs of Wisdom Tooth Problems Include:
- Inflammation of the surrounding gums
- Pain near the wisdom teeth or in the jaw
- Infection near the wisdom teeth – infection may cause swelling, pain and bad odor
- Facial swelling and stiffness of the jaw
- Wisdom tooth problems can even be present without having any symptoms
